Davao Oriental guv suspends coastal tourism ops after 2 quakes

Operations of all tourism establishments in Davao Oriental are suspended temporarily following the ‘doublet earthquake’ that struck off Manay town on Friday, October 10, 2025.

In an executive order issued by Governor Nelson Dayanghirang on Saturday, October 11, all tourism establishments located along the coastal areas of the province were directed to suspend operations.

“Tourism establishments located along the coastal zones are particularly vulnerable to aftershocks, ground instability, and potential secondary hazards such as landslides and tsunamis,” the order reads.

The order added that tourism establishments may resume operations only upon certification of structural integrity and a safety clearance issued by the Municipal Engineering Office and other competent authorities.

Establishments found to be operating in violation of the order shall be subject to administrative sanctions, including temporary closure and revocation of permits.

The provincial government said the powerful tremors damaged infrastructures, disrupted essential services, and heightened risks to public safety.

The number of families affected in the province has reached 70,985, based on partial data released by the provincial government as of 4 a.m. on Saturday, October 11.

Meanwhile, Cabinet officials, including DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, and Mindanao Development Authority Chairperson Leo Magno, visited Manay town, the epicenter of the magnitude 7.4 and 6.8 earthquakes, on Saturday.

Their first stop was the Manay District Hospital to check on the condition and needs of patients. The hospital sustained structural damages caused by the strong tremors.

The Cabinet secretaries also attended an inter-agency coordination meeting at the Kanato Hall, Subagan Tourism Complex in Mati City to speed up earthquake response and rehabilitation efforts.

During the meeting, officials of the province presented a comprehensive update on damages, assistance, and ongoing relief operations. —GMA Regional TV