Multiple earthquakes struck near Bayabas, Surigao del Sur, starting Saturday night and continuing into early Monday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
Significant Seismic Activity Recorded
The first quake, measured at 5.3 magnitude, occurred at 9:19 p.m. on May 24, 2026, approximately 50 kilometers northeast of Bayabas at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. Although initial reports indicated no damage, residents were cautioned to brace for potential aftershocks.
PHIVOLCS later revised the first earthquake’s magnitude to 5.0 at 10:18 a.m. on May 25.
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)
The region experienced a stronger tremor just hours later, with a magnitude 5.6 quake detected at 12:48 a.m. on May 25. This quake was later adjusted to a magnitude of 5.5 with an epicenter about 24 kilometers northeast of Bayabas.
Reports of shaking intensity varied, with Intensity IV felt in Bayabas, Tandag City, and Claver, while Intensity III was recorded in Cagwait and Lingig. Bislig City and parts of Davao de Oro experienced Intensity II.
As of the latest updates, Lot Garrido, Acting Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer, confirmed no casualties or significant damage had been reported.
- First quake: 5.3 magnitude at 9:19 p.m. on May 24
- Revised magnitude: 5.0 at 10:18 a.m. on May 25
- Second quake: 5.6 magnitude at 12:48 a.m. on May 25
- Revised magnitude: 5.5, epicenter 24 km northeast of Bayabas
The recent seismic events are reminders of the region's vulnerability to earthquakes, necessitating ongoing preparedness and public awareness initiatives.