Tsunami threat from Russia quake halts Bicol classes

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

Legazpi City --- Several local government units (LGUs) in the Bicol Region suspended classes on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, due to tsunami threats triggered by the 8.8-magnitude earthquake off the east coast of Kamchatka, Russia.

Rapu-Rapu Mayor Romel A. Galicia was among the first to issue a class suspension order.

“Due to the tsunami advisory issued by PHIVOLCS, classes in all levels in the municipality of Rapu-Rapu are suspended this afternoon, July 30, 2025, as a precautionary measure. Everyone is advised to stay away from coastal areas and remain alert for further updates. Your safety is our top priority,” Galicia announced.

Albay Governor Noel Rosal urged residents of Legazpi City and Rapu-Rapu to move to higher ground. He cited PHIVOLCS Tsunami Information No. 2, which indicated that Albay may experience tsunami wave heights of less than one meter.

“The first tsunami waves are expected to arrive between 1:20 PM and 2:40 PM today. Coastal barangays in Legazpi City and Rapu-Rapu should be on alert for unusual waves and avoid beaches until the advisory is lifted,” Rosal said.

“These may not be the largest waves, and they may continue for several hours. Residents near the shoreline should move farther inland. Boat owners should secure vessels or remain at sea in deep water,” he added.

In Catanduanes, Governor Patrick Azanza suspended classes in all levels starting 12:00 noon.

“As a precautionary measure on the tsunami alert following the earthquake in Russia, classes in all levels, public and private, are canceled across Catanduanes Island starting at 12 noon today, July 30, 2025,” Azanza stated.

“Everyone is advised to stay alert, stay away from beaches and coastal areas, and maintain open communication with family members,” he added.

In Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte, Mayor Ariel M. Non suspended classes in six coastal barangays: Larap, Parang, Calero, Salvacion, Dahican, and Dayhagan.

“There are no classes today in selected schools of Jose Panganiban, particularly those in barangays facing the Pacific Ocean that may be affected by the tsunami,” Non announced.

Meanwhile, Camarines Sur Governor Luis Raymund Villafuerte activated disaster response units in coastal and low-lying municipalities including Cabusao, Sipocot, Calabanga, Tinambac, Siruma, Garchitorena, Lagonoy, Presentacion, Caramoan, San Jose, Tigaon, and Sagnay.

“To all residents of Camarines Sur, especially those in coastal areas: avoid going to the beach, stay alert, and follow official advisories. If your home is near the shoreline, move inland. Boat owners should secure their vessels or remain in deep water. This is a precautionary alert. Do not panic—but stay safe, calm, and informed,” Villafuerte advised.

According to PHIVOLCS, Tsunami Information No. 2 was issued following the 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Kamchatka, Russia. While a destructive tsunami is not expected, minor sea-level changes are possible along the eastern coasts of the Philippines.

The first tsunami waves may arrive between 1:20 PM and 2:40 PM, with possible effects lasting for several hours. Eastern provinces such as Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, and Sorsogon may experience tsunami waves up to one meter high.

The Pacific-wide alert issued in the wake of the quake prompted Philippine authorities to take precautionary measures to ensure public safety.