Shallow M6.1 earthquake hits Union, Philippines
A shallow M6.1 earthquake was recorded at 23:03 UTC on October 16, 2025, exactly 0 km west-southwest of Union, Philippines. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 69.0 km (42.9 miles), based on coordinates 9.8°N, 126.1°E, as reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS).
The epicenter is positioned near the eastern coastline of Mindanao Island, with Union being a local settlement in the Surigao del Sur province of the Philippines. The region is characterized by numerous small towns and rural communities spread along the Pacific-facing side of eastern Mindanao.
Given the location close to coastal settlements and regional population centers, nearby infrastructure may include small ports, provincial highways, and utility networks typical of Philippine provincial areas. Major airports and energy facilities are found at greater distances, but regional lifelines could be affected by moderate shaking.
There is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.
USGS issued a green alert for this event, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or damage. The maximum estimated intensity for this earthquake was V on the Modified Mercalli scale. There were 8 felt reports submitted. The significance index is 577 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.
The affected region is located within the tectonically active Philippine Mobile Belt, which is characterized by the interaction of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. This area frequently experiences moderate to strong seismic events due to numerous nearby faults and plate boundaries.
This information was last updated at 23:31 UTC on October 16, 2025.