Sultan Kudarat earthquake swarm shows signs of gradual weakening — Phivolcs
Map showing the epicenters of the offshore earthquake swarm in Sultan Kudarat from Jan. 19, 2026, to Feb. 8, 2026. (Phivolcs)
The offshore earthquake swarm in Sultan Kudarat appears to be gradually weakening, with fewer tremors recorded per day compared to late January, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said on Sunday, Feb. 8.
At the height of the swarm, Phivolcs recorded up to 833 earthquakes in a single 24-hour period from Jan. 27 to 28.
By early February, daily counts had dropped to only tens per day, it said, citing as an example the 36 tremors recorded on Feb. 6 and 7.
Phivolcs said this trend likely indicates that the swarm is gradually weakening, although occasional felt earthquakes may still occur.
As of 4 p.m. on Feb. 8, a total of 3,570 earthquakes have been recorded in the offshore Sultan Kudarat area, with 120 felt by residents.
Recorded magnitudes range from 1.3 to 5.9.
However, Phivolcs emphasized that earthquakes cannot be predicted.
“It is not possible to determine when, where, or how strong the next earthquake will be—whether there is an ongoing swarm or not,” the agency said.
Phivolcs reminded the public to remain prepared at all times, practice the “duck, cover, and hold” safety drill, secure homes and workplaces, and stay updated through official Phivolcs advisories.