A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Friday, shaking coastal communities and prompting tsunami warnings across the region.

The quake, which hit offshore near the town of Manay in Davao Oriental, caused widespread panic as buildings swayed and people rushed to higher ground.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the tremor was one of the strongest to strike the Mindanao region in recent years.

Authorities confirmed at least one fatality, while reports of damaged homes, cracked roads, and collapsed bridges continue to emerge.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the nation that emergency teams were on high alert, emphasizing, “We are working round the clock to ensure that help reaches everyone who needs it.”

Rescue operations are being prepared as aftershocks continue to rattle affected areas.

The earthquake serves as a sobering reminder of the Philippines’ vulnerability, located along the volatile Pacific “Ring of Fire.”

Yet amid destruction and fear, communities are showing remarkable courage and unity — neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers rushing to aid, and local officials working tirelessly to ensure safety and relief.

Tsunami alerts were also issued for nearby countries including Indonesia and Palau, though the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later confirmed the threat for the Philippines had passed.

As the nation braces for recovery, the resilience of the Filipino people once again shines through — proving that even in the face of nature’s fury, compassion and solidarity remain the country’s greatest strength.