DAVAO OCCIDENTAL, June 11, 2026 — Seismologists recorded a moderate aftershock off the southern coast of Davao Occidental on Thursday afternoon, adding to the ongoing series of tremors that have followed a powerful earthquake earlier this week. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST) confirmed the event carried a magnitude of 5.3 and struck well offshore, with no structural damage anticipated from the tremor.
Location and Timing of the Aftershock
According to PHIVOLCS-DOST, the earthquake was recorded at precisely 3:33:13 PM on June 11, 2026. Its epicenter was situated approximately 93 kilometers south 10 degrees west of Balut Island, within the jurisdiction of the Municipality of Sarangani in Davao Occidental. The geographic coordinates were fixed at 4.58°N, 125.28°E, positioning the quake well within the open waters south of the Philippine island chain.
PHIVOLCS-DOST classified the tremor as a shallow earthquake, with a focal depth of only 15 kilometers beneath the seabed. The origin of the seismic event was determined to be tectonic in nature. The official earthquake bulletin was released by the agency at 4:50 PM on the same day, roughly one hour and seventeen minutes after the quake struck.
Weak Shaking Registered in Nearby Provinces
Despite its offshore location, the quake was felt in at least two areas in the nearby Mindanao region. PHIVOLCS-DOST reported that instrumental intensity readings were recorded in Santo Niño, South Cotabato, and Malungon, Sarangani.
Santo Niño in South Cotabato registered Intensity II on the PHIVOLCS Earthquake Intensity Scale (PEIS). According to the PEIS classification system, Intensity II refers to shaking that can be felt by a limited number of individuals — most notably those who are at rest, lying down, or situated on higher floors of buildings. Physical effects at this level are generally minimal.
Malungon in Sarangani, meanwhile, recorded a lower Intensity I reading. Under the same PEIS framework, Intensity I is described as scarcely perceptible — meaning the tremor may be detected by sensitive seismic instruments but is typically not noticed by people going about normal daily activities.
No Structural Damage Foreseen
PHIVOLCS-DOST assessed that the June 11 magnitude 5.3 event is unlikely to have caused any property damage, given both its offshore epicenter and the relatively weak intensities recorded on land. Nevertheless, the agency cautioned that the aftershock sequence has not yet concluded, and further tremors of varying magnitudes are still anticipated in the coming days.
Residents in the affected provinces are encouraged to remain calm but alert, and to take precautionary measures in the event that stronger aftershocks follow.
Connected to the June 8 Major Earthquake
PHIVOLCS-DOST confirmed that Thursday's tremor is part of the continuing aftershock sequence triggered by the magnitude 7.8 Offshore Sarangani earthquake that struck on June 8, 2026. That powerful mainshock, which occurred just three days prior, set off a chain of seismic activity in the region that agencies have been closely monitoring.
The June 11 event was catalogued as Earthquake Information No. 2 in the agency's bulletin series for this particular aftershock sequence. PHIVOLCS-DOST stated that no additional bulletins would be issued specifically for the June 11 event unless new or updated information becomes available that warrants a supplemental release.
Public Advisory: Follow Official Updates
PHIVOLCS-DOST urged members of the public to stay informed through verified and official government sources rather than relying on unconfirmed reports circulating on social media. The agency's official website at phivolcs.dost.gov.ph serves as the primary platform for real-time earthquake bulletins, intensity reports, and advisories related to the ongoing aftershock sequence off Davao Occidental.
The public is reminded that during periods of active seismic sequences, the frequency and magnitude of aftershocks can vary unpredictably. Preparedness measures — such as knowing evacuation routes, keeping emergency kits ready, and being aware of structural vulnerabilities in one's home or workplace — remain advisable throughout the duration of such sequences, as noted in standard PHIVOLCS-DOST public safety guidance.
Local government units in South Cotabato, Sarangani, and Davao Occidental are likewise expected to coordinate with national agencies in monitoring ground conditions and ensuring that communities near the coast remain informed of any developments, particularly given the offshore nature of both the mainshock and its subsequent aftershocks.
Originally reported by: breakingnewsnegor.com / Balita – Negros Oriental News