BUTUAN CITY –A magnitude 5.0 earthquake jolted Matanao, Davao del Sur, at 9:42 a.m. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The earthquake originated tectonically due to the movement of tectonic plates along fault lines in the region.
Phivolcs identified the epicenter as being located two kilometers south-southwest of Matanao, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. While the tremor was moderate to strong, it caused only minor damage in the affected areas.
Instrumental Intensity Reports: Phivolcs provided the following instrumental intensity data, which measures ground shaking using accelerometers. This differs from the intensity levels reported by residents based on their personal experiences of the earthquake.
- Intensity 5 (Strong): Matanao, Magsaysay (Davao del Sur)
- Intensity 4 (Moderately Strong): Kidapawan City (Cotabato), Malungon (Sarangani), Tampakan and Tupi (South Cotabato)
- Intensity 3 (Weak): Magpet (Cotabato), Davao City, Davao del Sur, General Santos City, Banga (South Cotabato), President Quirino and Columbio (Sultan Kudarat)
- Intensity 2 (Slightly Felt): Pikit (Cotabato), Jose Abad Santos (Davao Occidental), Kiamba (Sarangani), Suralla, Norala, Santo Niño, T’Boli (South Cotabato), Lambayong, Isulan (Sultan Kudarat)
- Intensity 1 (Scarcely Perceptible): Don Marcelino (Davao Occidental), Nabunturan (Davao de Oro), Lake Sebu (South Cotabato), Esperanza, Kalamansig, Bagumbayan (Sultan Kudarat)
Risk of Aftershocks: Phivolcs has warned that aftershocks are likely to occur following the earthquake, which could potentially lead to further minor damage.
Ongoing Damage Assessment: The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is actively collecting field reports to evaluate the full extent of the earthquake’s impact. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant for aftershocks and adhere to the guidance of local officials.
