Magnitude 6.1 Aftershock Hits Southern Philippines; Indonesia Orders Emergency Evacuations for Tsunami

(Central News Agency, Manila, 7th, Comprehensive Foreign News) The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude 6.1 aftershock in the southern Philippines, just hours after a powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake that killed at least one person, toppled multiple buildings, and triggered regional tsunami warnings.

According to AFP, the aftershock had a depth of 67 kilometers, with its epicenter located approximately 8 kilometers north-northwest of Sarangani Province on Mindanao Island.

Following the magnitude 7.8 quake in the southern Philippines, the Indonesian government ordered the evacuation of residents in its northern regions to guard against the threat of a tsunami.

The Indonesian National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) issued a statement saying that local officials in high-risk areas, including the North Sulawesi provincial capital of Manado, northern Gorontalo Province, and the Sangihe Islands, "have been ordered to immediately and orderly guide residents to evacuate to higher ground."

The agency stated that the earthquake shaking in the affected areas lasted about 2 to 3 seconds and was not strong, and that the situation is currently "safe, calm, and under control."

BNPB spokesperson Abdul Muhari urged, "The public should not panic, prioritize the safety of vulnerable groups such as the elderly, people with disabilities, and children, and must follow official instructions."

Indonesia and neighboring countries are located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making them prone to frequent earthquakes.

In 2004, a magnitude 9.1 earthquake struck Indonesia's westernmost province of Aceh, triggering a tsunami that killed over 170,000 people. (Editor: Shishi) 1150608