DAVAO REGION - The provinces of Davao de Oro and Tagum City have been plunged into a state of calamity following a series of powerful earthquakes that rattled the region, causing significant infrastructure damage and keeping residents on high alert.
Seismic Activity Triggers Emergency Response
The Davao de Oro provincial government took decisive action on Thursday, February 15, officially declaring a state of calamity across the entire province. This emergency measure comes in response to multiple earthquakes that have struck the area, with the most significant tremor registering a magnitude of 5.2.
According to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), the seismic activity has been particularly concerning in Maragusan town, where residents have experienced nearly continuous ground shaking since the initial quakes began.
Widespread Impact and Damage Assessment
The earthquakes have left a trail of destruction across the region, with preliminary reports indicating:
- Significant damage to critical infrastructure including roads and bridges
- Multiple aftershocks keeping communities in a state of anxiety
- Disrupted daily activities and business operations
- Concerns about structural integrity of buildings and homes
Tagum City Joins Emergency Declaration
Following Davao de Oro's lead, Tagum City also declared a state of calamity on the same day. The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) confirmed that their declaration was prompted by the same series of earthquakes that have been affecting the broader Davao Region.
"The safety of our residents is our top priority," stated local officials, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address the ongoing seismic threats.
Ongoing Monitoring and Public Safety Measures
Disaster management teams remain on high alert across both jurisdictions, continuously monitoring the situation and assessing new damage reports as they emerge. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) continues to track seismic activity in the region, providing regular updates to local government units.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols as aftershocks may continue to occur in the coming days. Emergency response teams are positioned throughout affected areas to provide immediate assistance where needed.
