Side-by-side photos show earthquake destruction in the Philippines — collapsed homes in a Typhoon Haiyan survivors’ village in Bogo City, Cebu, and a damaged house in Davao Oriental after the 2025 quakes. – Photo credit: Philippine Information Agency (PIA)
PHIVOLCS confirmed that the Cebu, Davao, and Baguio earthquakes are not connected, as each originated from separate fault systems. As of October 13, more than 800 aftershocks were recorded in Davao and over 900 in Cebu.
MANILA — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reaffirmed that the recent earthquakes in Cebu, Davao, and Baguio/La Union are not connected, saying each originated from distinct fault systems that act independently.
The agency’s latest assessment, as of October 13, 2025, dispels speculation of a chain reaction following a series of strong tremors that struck different parts of the country over the past two weeks.
Separate origins, separate systems
“All independent earthquake generators… Walang kinalaman yung isa sa Philippine Trench dun sa Bogo Bay Fault,” Bacolcol said. “The activity of one will not induce or trigger the activity of the other.”
PHIVOLCS intensifies field monitoring as aftershocks surpass 800 in Davao and 900 in Cebu
As of October 13, PHIVOLCS has cataloged over 800 aftershocks in Davao Oriental alone, ranging from magnitudes 1.2 to 5.8, with several felt across coastal provinces. The agency continues to issue daily bulletins as it monitors aftershock activity and potential ground deformation.
PHIVOLCS’ Quick Response Teams have been deployed to Davao Oriental and nearby provinces to conduct geologic impact assessments, including checks for ground rupture, landslides, and liquefaction. Bacolcol advised residents to remain vigilant: “Aftershocks may continue for several days or weeks, some of which may still be felt.”
At least seven fatalities have been reported from the twin Davao earthquakes, along with dozens of injuries and infrastructure damage in coastal communities such as Mati City and Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental.
In Cebu, seismic activity remains under close observation following multiple aftershocks detected north of Bogo City between October 12 and 13. PHIVOLCS reiterated that these movements are part of the normal aftershock sequence of the September 30 mainshock.
Clarifying public fears
The series of strong quakes sparked online speculation about a “nationwide seismic chain.” PHIVOLCS has categorically rejected that claim, emphasizing that each quake occurred within its own localized tectonic regime.
“While the timing may seem close, there is no scientific evidence that one earthquake caused another,” the agency said. “Each event is an isolated tectonic occurrence within its respective fault system.”
Building resilience
Experts note that the Philippines experiences more than 20,000 earthquakes each year, though only a small fraction are felt. The recent sequence underscores the importance of sustained preparedness, especially in a country straddling multiple active faults—including the Philippine Trench, Central Philippine Fault, and East Luzon Trough.
PHIVOLCS urged local governments to review evacuation plans, retrofit critical structures, and continue public education drives on earthquake safety.
“Preparedness remains our best defense,” Bacolcol said. “We cannot predict earthquakes, but we can lessen their impact through awareness and resilient infrastructure.”
