Strong Earthquake Rocks Southern Philippines, Coastal Evacuations Ordered
A significant magnitude 5.7 earthquake jolted the coastal region of Sultan Kudarat in the early hours of Wednesday, January 28, 2026, according to official reports from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The seismic event, classified as tectonic in origin, occurred precisely at 1:05 a.m. with its epicenter located approximately 55 kilometers south of Kalamansig municipality at a depth of 19 kilometers beneath the seabed.
Instrumental Intensity Readings Across Mindanao
Phivolcs recorded varying levels of ground shaking across multiple provinces in the Mindanao region, with the strongest intensities reported in coastal areas closest to the epicenter. The instrumental intensity scale revealed:
- Intensity IV in Lebak and Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat
- Intensity III in Norala, South Cotabato, and Esperanza, Sultan Kudarat
- Intensity II in several towns across Cotabato, Sarangani, and South Cotabato provinces
- Intensity I felt as far as Bukidnon, Sarangani, and Zamboanga City
Immediate Response and Safety Measures
In the aftermath of the quake, local authorities swiftly implemented precautionary measures to protect residents from potential hazards. The Philippine Coast Guard and other emergency personnel conducted preemptive evacuations in coastal and high-risk areas, particularly focusing on Barangay Tibpuan and other vulnerable coastal communities in Lebak town.
Many affected families were temporarily relocated to evacuation centers in Barangays Pasandalan and Poloy-Poloy as a safety precaution against possible aftershocks and secondary hazards. Authorities emphasized that aftershocks are typical following significant seismic events and urged continued vigilance.
Government Actions and Public Advisories
The provincial government of Sultan Kudarat issued an official order suspending classes at all levels and work in government offices across the towns of Kalamansig, Lebak, and Palimbang until further notice. This decision was made to ensure public safety amid continuing seismic activity in the region.
While essential services, disaster response teams, and emergency personnel remain fully operational, officials have issued important advisories for residents:
- Stay alert for possible aftershocks
- Avoid damaged or unstable structures
- Closely monitor updates from official disaster response offices
The earthquake serves as a reminder of the Philippines' location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where seismic activity is relatively common. Disaster preparedness remains crucial for communities in vulnerable regions.
