A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the central Philippines on September 30, 2025, at 9:59 PM PST. The epicenter was located off the coast of Cebu Province, approximately 17 kilometers northeast of Bogo City, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The tremor was felt across the Visayas archipelago, with intensity 6 recorded in Cebu City and Villaba, Leyte, and intensity 3 in San Fernando, Cebu. Power disruptions were reported in some areas, including Bogo City and Daanbantayan. Assessments for damage are ongoing, with reports of a partially collapsed fast-food building in Bogo City and damage to heritage churches in northern Cebu, including the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan and the Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol Bantayan. Several casualties were reported in San Remigio and Medellin municipalities in Cebu. Classes were suspended in various parts of Cebu on October 1, 2025, due to the earthquake.
In response to the seismic event, Phivolcs issued a tsunami advisory, warning of a minor sea-level disturbance. Residents in coastal areas of Leyte, Cebu, and Biliran were advised to stay away from beaches and move farther inland if their homes are near the shoreline. Boat owners were instructed to secure their vessels and move them away from the waterfront, and those at sea were advised to stay in deep waters. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, however, stated that there was no tsunami threat from this earthquake and no action was required.
The Philippines' location along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a region known for its high seismic and volcanic activity, makes it particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. This zone accounts for approximately 90% of the world's earthquakes and 75% of its active volcanoes. The country has a robust disaster preparedness system, including institutions like Phivolcs that develop strategies for earthquake and tsunami awareness and mitigation. The Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS) aids in simulating disaster scenarios and enhancing community resilience. The nation's commitment to science-based disaster risk reduction is evident in its continuous efforts to refine early warning systems and promote a culture of safety.