By Aerol John Pateña/PNA
MANILA — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has suspended sea travel in areas affected by the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Davao Oriental province on Saturday.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has warned of strong currents and rapid changes in seawater level around the Philippine Sea.
“PCG Commandant Elson Hermogino advised station commanders to temporarily suspend all waterborne and coastal activities in their area of responsibility and monitor closely developments as a result of that ocean disturbance,” the Coast Guard said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has suspended operations in its terminals located along areas affected by the quake.
“In view of the tsunami warning issued by Phivolcs, PPA has ordered the suspension of operations in PPA terminals affected by the warning and lock down the affected facilities until receipt of notice that the threat has subsided. All PPA personnel and passengers have been directed to relocate to safer locations,” PPA General Manager Jay Santiago said.
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake occurred in Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental at about 11:39 a.m., according to Phivolcs.
Phivolcs advised residents to “stay away from the beach and not to go to the coast fronting (the) Philippine Sea” in the following provinces from 12 noon to 2 p.m. and until the threat has passed: Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao City, Davao Oriental, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur.
“Minor sea level disturbances such as strong currents and rapid rise and fall of seawaters are expected. The concerned public is advised to be on alert for unusual waves,” the agency said.
