Following the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Davao Oriental at 9:43 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 10, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) urged the public to remain calm and follow safety reminders.

The strong quake, located 62 kilometers southeast of Manay, Davao Oriental at a depth of 10 kilometers, prompted Phivolcs to issue a Tsunami Warning for nearby coastal areas.

For those inside sturdy houses or buildings, the agency advised to do the “Duck, Drop, Cover, and Hold” procedure.

“Kung nasa loob ng isang matibay na bahay o gusali, manatili lamang dito (If you are inside a strong house or building, stay there),”Phivolcs said.

“Yumuko, magtago sa ilalim ng matibay na lamesa, at humawak sa mga paa nito (Duck, take cover under a sturdy table, and hold onto its legs).”

Also, Phivolcs cautioned the public to keep clear of fragile or heavy objects that could easily fall, such as windows and other breakable items.

For people caught outdoors, the agency advised them to keep away from trees, utility poles, and walls that could topple during the quake.

It also reminded citizens to keep away from steep slopes and coastal areas.

“Lumayo sa gilid at dalisdis ng mga bundok na maaaring gumuho (Stay away from mountain slopes that may collapse),” Phivolcs said.

“Kung nasa tabing dagat, mabilis na lumikas sa mas mataas na lugar o palayo sa dagat. Maaaring magkaroon ng tsunami (If you are near the shore, immediately move to higher ground or away from the sea. A tsunami may occur).”

Phivolcs strongly warned both motorists and pedestrians against attempting to cross bridges, overpasses, or flyovers during the quake.

“Kung nagmamaneho, itabi at ihinto ang sasakyan (If you are driving, pull over and stop the vehicle).”

Phivolcs told the public to keep vigilant even after the earthquake ends and to prepare for succeeding aftershocks.

“Matapos ang pagyanig, piliin ang pinakaligtas at pinakamabilis na daan palabas ng bahay o gusali (After the shaking, choose the safest and fastest way out of the house or building),” the agency said.

Phivolcs reminded those who need to evacuate their homes to leave a message indicating their departure time and destination, and to take their emergency supplies with them.

“Patuloy na makinig sa mga anunsyo at babala gamit ang radyong de baterya (Keep listening to announcements and warnings using a battery-powered radio),” it added.

Phivolcs also advised the public not to use elevators during or after a quake and to take the stairs instead.

The agency further warned against entering damaged structures, including buildings, bridges, overpasses, and flyovers, as these may be unsafe.

As such, it reminded everyone to refrain from using telephones unless absolutely necessary to keep communication lines open for emergencies, and to avoid panicking to maintain clear judgment and safety.

Phivolcs further urged the public to assess their surroundings and ensure safety by checking themselves and others for possible injuries.

“Suriin ang mga linya ng tubig at kuryente. Kung may nakitang sira, isara agad ang main switch at ipaalam sa kinauukulan (Inspect water and power lines. If damaged, turn off the main switch and report it to authorities).”

“Suriin kung may natapong nakalalason at madaling magliyab na mga kemikal (Check for spilled toxic or flammable chemicals),” it added.