DAVAO DE ORO — The provincial government of Davao de Oro has ordered the immediate suspension of all mining operations in the province following the powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck parts of Eastern Mindanao on October 10, 2025.
Governor Engr. Raul G. Mabanglo issued Executive Order No. [Series of 2025], mandating the temporary halt of both small-scale and large-scale mining activities to ensure the safety of workers, residents, and surrounding communities.
The earthquake, which hit at 9:43 a.m. with its epicenter traced to Manay, Davao Oriental, caused widespread tremors across the Davao Region. According to the Office of Civil Defense Region XI (OCD-XI), at least three fatalities have been confirmed as of this report.
Governor Mabanglo emphasized that the suspension is a preventive and safety measure, citing the risk of ground instability, slope failures, and possible collapse of underground workings following the quake and anticipated aftershocks.
“The Provincial Government must exercise the highest degree of caution to protect lives, prevent further damage, and allow for comprehensive post-earthquake assessment and hazard mapping,” the governor stated in the order.
Under the executive order, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) will lead the inspection and assessment of affected mining areas. The duration of the suspension will depend on the findings and recommendations from these agencies.
Mining operations will only be allowed to resume once proper clearances are issued by the concerned authorities.
Governor Mabanglo also directed all Municipal Local Government Units (LGUs), Disaster Risk Reduction Offices, and Environment and Natural Resources Offices to strictly enforce the order and coordinate with mining stakeholders to ensure compliance.
Non-compliance with the directive may result in administrative sanctions, revocation of permits, or legal action, according to the order.
The suspension comes amid concerns about the safety of mining sites located in geologically sensitive areas of Davao de Oro, a province known for its gold deposits and active small-scale mining communities.
Authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and assess the structural integrity of critical facilities across the province as recovery operations are underway.