M6.4 QUAKE HITS DAVAO OCCIDENTAL

Courtesy: PHIVOLCS

A strong magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck off the coast of Davao Occidental at midday on Wednesday, sending tremors across several provinces in southern Mindanao. The tectonic event occurred at 12:14 PM on August 5, 2026, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). The epicenter was located 37 kilometers southwest of Balut Island, within the municipality of Sarangani, Davao Occidental. The earthquake was shallow, with a depth of focus recorded at 13 kilometers.

Impact and Intensities

While seismic instruments detected widespread movement across the Soccsksargen and Davao regions, PHIVOLCS stated that no immediate damage is expected from the offshore event. However, residents are advised to remain alert as aftershocks are expected.

The agency reported the following felt intensities:

• Intensity V (Strong): Glan, Sarangani
• Intensity IV (Moderately Strong): General Santos City; Kiamba, Malungon, and Alabel, Sarangani; Tupi and Polomolok, South Cotabato
• Intensity III (Weak): Maasim, Maitum, and Malapatan, Sarangani; Lake Sebu and Tampakan, South Cotabato
• Intensity II (Slight): Koronadal City, Banga, and Surallah, South Cotabato

Instrumental Readings

Seismographs in the region registered the highest shaking at Instrumental Intensity V in Sarangani, Davao Occidental, and General Santos City. Instrumental Intensity IV was logged in Kiamba and Malungon, Sarangani, as well as Tupi, South Cotabato. Lighter vibrations were recorded as far as Davao del Sur, Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat. Local disaster risk reduction and management offices are currently monitoring their respective areas for any secondary effects, though no tsunami warnings have been raised.