A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck near Maitum, Mindanao, Philippines, on April 16, 2025, with no reported casualties or damage, officials say.
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| The Southern Philippines was struck by a 5.6-magnitude earthquake near Maitum on April 16, 2025. No significant impact reported amid routine seismic activity. Image: Collected |
MANILA, Philippines — April 16, 2025:
A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao in the southern Philippines on Wednesday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Local authorities and seismologists report no immediate damage or casualties.
The quake’s epicenter was located approximately 43 kilometers southwest of Maitum, a mountainous and sparsely populated town in the Sarangani province. It struck at a depth of 30 kilometers (18.6 miles), consistent with moderate seismic events in the region.
“It was strong but didn’t last long. We have checked but it was negative for damage or casualties,” said Gilbert Rolifor, a fire department official based in Maitum, in a statement to reporters.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) noted that while the tremor was felt in nearby communities, it did not trigger any tsunami warning or significant disruption.
The Philippines sits atop the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to active tectonic plate boundaries. Earthquakes are a near-daily occurrence in the archipelago, though most are too weak to be felt.
Wednesday’s event serves as a reminder of the country’s geological volatility, though no major aftershocks have been reported so far. Authorities continue to monitor the area for any further seismic activity.