PHIVOLCS: Davao Oriental earthquake aftershocks reach 1,203

Phivolcs has recorded a total of 1,203 aftershocks, including 14 that were felt, as of Monday noon following the magnitude 7.4 earthquake in Manay, Davao Oriental on October 10.

Phivolcs chief Dr. Teresito Bacolcol earlier advised affected residents to consult first with experts before returning to their homes for their safety.

“If there are visible damages sa mga istruktura kung saan sila nakatira, huwag muna silang pumasok,” he said.

(If there are visible damage to the structures where they live, they should not go inside.)

“They have to consult their municipal or city engineers kasi kung hindi man ito totally na-damage during the main shock, baka ma-damage ito totally during a strong aftershock,” he added.

(They have to consult their municipal or city engineers because if it wasn't totally damaged during the main shock, it could be totally damaged during a strong aftershock.)

The 7.4 magnitude quake was followed by a 6.8 quake the same day.

The reported death toll due to the earthquakes was eight, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said as of Sunday.

A total of 2,102 houses were damaged—1,804 partially and 298 totally. — BM, GMA Integrated News