Breaking News: Two Nations on Edge as Powerful 7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Warnings
Live Coverage
Edited by Yvette Tan, with field reporting from Virma Simonette in Manila, and Koh Ewe and Kelly Ng in Singapore.
1. A Chain of Disasters Hits the Philippines (Published at 04:12 BST)
Nature seems relentless in battering the Philippines. Early this morning, a massive 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck as the country continues to recover from a series of devastating natural disasters.
Just last week, the coastal city of Bogo in Cebu province was rocked by a 7.0-magnitude quake that left 74 people dead and more than 500 injured. The region’s vulnerability is compounded by frequent typhoons that sweep across its islands.
Severe Tropical Storm Bualoi recently ravaged central Philippine islands, killing at least 11 people and displacing hundreds of thousands. And as if that weren’t enough, Super Typhoon Ragasa — the year’s most powerful storm — slammed through northern Cagayan province in September, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
These recurring calamities have once again raised questions: Is the country’s disaster preparedness enough for what’s coming next?
2. Indonesia Calls for Calm (Published at 04:08 BST)
Across the sea, Indonesia is echoing a crucial message — “Stay calm, verify information, and don’t spread panic.” Authorities are urging residents not to re-enter damaged buildings until they are confirmed safe.
The nation’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency advised: “Inspect your home carefully. If you notice cracks or any signs of structural damage, stay outdoors until professionals deem it secure.”
So far, Indonesian officials report no major damage — but many online are speculating. Should governments act faster to combat misinformation during crises like this?
3. Reports of Damage in Davao Oriental (Published at 04:02 BST)
Panic gripped the southern Philippine province of Davao Oriental when the earthquake struck. Governor Edwin Jubahib confirmed to local broadcaster DZMM that several buildings sustained damage and described the tremor as “very strong.”
This region still bears painful memories — in 2012, Typhoon Bopha claimed hundreds of lives here. Locals fear history may be repeating itself.
4. 'Destructive Tsunami' Warning from Philippine Authorities (Published at 03:55 BST)
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has issued a dire warning: a “destructive tsunami” could bring life-threatening waves exceeding one meter above the usual tide levels — possibly even higher in enclosed bays and straits.
Officials estimate the first waves could arrive before 11:43 a.m. local time (03:43 GMT) and may persist for several hours. It’s a race against time as coastal residents heed urgent evacuation orders.
But here's where it gets controversial — some critics argue that tsunami alerts in the region often come too late. How well are national agencies really communicating these threats?
5. Chaos at Davao City Hospital (Published at 03:46 BST)
New photos from state broadcaster PTV show frantic scenes outside Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. Patients, some still connected to IVs, were rushed out into the car park as tremors struck. Medical staff and families huddled together in fear, while hospital corridors overflowed with crowds.
It’s a grim reminder of the vulnerability of even critical institutions during major quakes.
6. First Tsunami Waves Could Arrive Within the Hour (Published at 03:37 BST)
Officials warn that initial tsunami waves may reach shores within an hour and last for hours. Phivolcs has urged everyone near the coast of affected provinces to “head to higher ground or move inland immediately.”
Boat owners are being told to secure their vessels and stay away from docks. Those already out at sea are advised to remain in deep waters until further notice — yet another precautionary move that could save countless lives.
7. Waves Could Reach Up to 3 Meters High (Published at 03:32 BST)
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) has heightened alarms, predicting waves up to 3 meters (10 feet) above normal tides along parts of the Philippine coast. Indonesia and the island nation of Palau might also see one-meter waves, triggering evacuations there as well.
8. Northern Indonesia Placed on Alert (Published at 03:28 BST)
Tsunami warnings are now in effect across Indonesia’s northern regions, including Sulawesi and Papua — both located over 300 kilometers from the earthquake’s epicenter. The country’s geophysics agency confirmed the threat remains active for these coastal areas.
9. Quake in Mindanao Sparks Regional Tsunami Alert (Published at 03:22 BST)
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck off Mindanao’s coast has led both the Philippines and Indonesia to issue regional tsunami warnings. Emergency services are monitoring developments closely, urging vigilance and calm as the situation unfolds.
This is an ongoing story, and updates will continue to flow in throughout the morning.
But here’s a question for you: Given the region’s history with deadly quakes and typhoons, do you believe Southeast Asia’s disaster preparedness measures are improving — or are we falling into a cycle of reaction rather than prevention? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
