The Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST–PHIVOLCS), in collaboration with the local government of the Municipality of Lebak and the Province of Sultan Kudarat, will conduct more activities on August 17–18, 2026, to strengthen awareness among the communities of the lessons from the 1976 Magnitude 8.1 Moro Gulf Earthquake and Tsunami or the “Midnight Killer,” as part of the series of commemorative earthquake and tsunami activities.

On August 17, 1976, a powerful earthquake struck Sultan Kudarat and neighboring provinces, followed by a devastating tsunami. The municipality of Lebak was among the hardest-hit areas, particularly by the tsunami, with waves reaching heights of up to nine (9)  meters or as tall as a three-story building. The tsunami also caused extensive coastal damage in the municipalities of Kalamansig and Palimbang, severely affecting fishing communities and leaving widespread damage.

Five decades later, a ceremonial unveiling of the first commemorative marker on the eastern side of Moro Gulf, Celebes Sea, will take place on August 17, 2026, at the Provincial Capitol Extension, Brgy. Tibpuan, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. The marker pays tribute to the survivors, responders, scientists, government agencies, local communities, international partners, and media organizations who played a vital role in life-saving actions and efforts in the aftermath of the 1976 earthquake and tsunami.

DOST-PHIVOLCS’ Project Earthquake, Tsunami, and Volcano Disaster Narratives for Experiential Knowledge-based Science Communication (DANAS) Sourcebook and DOST-PHIVOLCS Information Products Rollout will be conducted on the same day. Copies of the earthquake and tsunami information materials will be distributed to teachers and local disaster risk reduction and management (LDRRM) officials.

An exhibit featuring the 1976 Earthquake and interactive Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness activities will be open for public viewing on August 18, 2026, 8:30 AM, at the Barangay Aurelio F. Freires Sr. Gymnasium. A seminar, titled “Kabataan: Handa ang May Alam”, will be held in the afternoon for Grade 7 and 8 students from the municipalities of Lebak and Kalamansig. This orientation aims to enhance the youth’s knowledge of geologic hazards and encourages them to advocate family and community-level preparedness. The lessons learned from the 1976 Magnitude 8.1 Moro Gulf Earthquake and Tsunami contributed to modern disaster risk management in the Philippines, specifically improving emergency responses through science and technology. DOST-PHIVOLCS continues to reach greater heights in preparedness, strong disaster structures, and expanded seismic and tsunami monitoring networks across the country.

 

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol
Director, DOST-PHIVOLCS
phivolcs_mail@phivolcs.dost.gov.ph
+632 8426-1468