News

Magnitude 6.7 earthquake rocks southern Philippines

Published

2 years ago

November 17, 2023

Abdul Rahman

Table of Contents

Introduction

On Friday, November 17, 2023, a powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck the southern Philippine region of Mindanao, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure, but no reports of casualties so far. The quake occurred at 10:32 a.m. local time (0232 GMT), about 16 kilometres (10 miles) southe-astuy of General Santos City, at a depth of 15 kilometres (9 miles), according to the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) 1. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) measured the quake at a slightly higher magnitude of 6.8 and warned of possible aftershocks and damage ². The tremor was felt in several provinces in Mindanao, including Davao, Cotabato, Sarangani, and South Cotabato, where residents were advised to stay alert and avoid structures that may have been weakened by the quake ². Some people evacuated shopping malls, schools, and offices in panic, while others posted photos and videos of the quake on social media.

Background

The Philippines is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone of frequent seismic activity due to the collision of tectonic plates. The country experiences an average of 20 earthquakes per day, most of them not felt ³. However, some of them are strong enough to cause significant damage and loss of lives. In February 2017, a magnitude 6.7 earthquake hit Surigao City in Mindanao, killing eight people and injuring more than 200 ⁴. In October 2019, a series of strong quakes rocked Cotabato province in Mindanao, killing at least 22 people and displacing thousands ⁵. These earthquakes also triggered landslides, power outages, and water shortages in the affected areas.

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Effects

The magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Mindanao on November 17, 2023, was tectonic in origin and caused by the movement of a local fault ¹ ². The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said a tsunami was not expected from the quake ¹. However, the quake still caused considerable damage to the infrastructure and properties in the region. Amor Mio, police chief of Koronadal city, near the quake’s epicenter, said there were no reports of casualties but officials were checking a shopping mall reported to have been damaged ¹. He added that some power lines and water pipes were also affected by the quake ². The quake also disrupted the communication and transportation systems in some areas, making it difficult for the authorities and the relief agencies to assess the situation and provide assistance. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said it was coordinating with the local government units and the military to conduct rapid damage assessment and needs analysis ⁶.

Response

The Philippine government and the international community have expressed their solidarity and support to the victims of the earthquake. President Rodrigo Duterte, who hails from Davao City, said he would visit the quake-hit areas as soon as possible and assured the public that the government would provide all the necessary assistance. He also appealed to the people to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it had prepositioned relief goods and personnel in the region and was ready to augment the resources of the local government units. The Department of Health (DOH) said it had deployed medical teams and supplies to the affected areas and was monitoring the health situation. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said it had mobilized its personnel and equipment to clear the roads and bridges and restore the public services. The United Nations and its humanitarian partners said they were in contact with the government and were ready to provide support if requested. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said it had activated its disaster response teams and was working with the Philippine Red Cross to deliver aid and services to the affected communities.

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Conclusion

The magnitude 6.7 earthquake that hit Mindanao on November 17, 2023, was one of the strongest quakes to hit the region in recent years. It caused damage to the infrastructure and properties, but fortunately, no fatalities were reported. The quake also highlighted the vulnerability of the Philippines to natural disasters and the need for disaster preparedness and resilience. The government and the humanitarian agencies have responded swiftly and effectively to the emergency and have provided relief and assistance to the affected population. The people of Mindanao have also shown their courage and solidarity in the face of adversity and have helped each other cope with the aftermath of the quake.

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Related Topics:earthquake news opinion Philippines World

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Festival

🎃 The Ultimate 2025 Halloween Guide: Movies, Costumes & Chipotle’s $6 Boorito Deal

Published

6 hours ago

October 31, 2025

Abdul Rahman

Halloween isn’t just about candy anymore—it’s about experiences. From binge-worthy Halloween movies to viral-worthy Halloween costumes and the fan-favourite Chipotle Halloween deal, this year’s spooky season is shaping up to be bigger, bolder, and tastier than ever.

Table of Contents

👻 Must-Watch Halloween Movies in 2025

halloween time — Photo by Humberto Guzman on Pexels.com

If you’re planning a cozy night in, nothing sets the mood like a good scare. This year’s lineup of Halloween movies is a mix of horror, nostalgia, and family fun:

Hocus Pocus 3 – The Sanderson sisters are back with more mischief.
The Haunting of Ravenwood – A chilling new release that’s already trending on streaming platforms.
Saw XI – For fans who crave gore and psychological twists.
Beetlejuice (Remastered) – Tim Burton’s cult classic returns in stunning 4K.

Pro tip: Pair your movie marathon with themed snacks—pumpkin popcorn, candy corn cocktails, or even a Chipotle burrito for a savory twist.

🧛 Trending Halloween Costumes for 2025

This year’s Halloween costumes are all about creativity and pop culture. Expect to see:

Barbie & Ken (Apocalypse Edition) – Riding the Barbie movie wave with a darker twist.
AI Avatars – Futuristic, glowing, and perfect for tech lovers.
Classic Monsters Reimagined – Dracula in streetwear, Frankenstein with neon accents.
Group Costumes – Assemble your crew as Stranger Things characters or the Inside Out 2 emotions.

Tip: Add LED accessories or animated props to make your costume stand out both in person and on TikTok.

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🌯 Chipotle Halloween Deal: The $6 Boorito

No Halloween is complete without food, and Chipotle is once again serving up its legendary Chipotle Halloween deal.

What’s the deal? On October 31, from 3 PM until close, Chipotle Rewards members can grab any entrée—burrito, bowl, tacos, salad, or quesadilla—for just $6 when ordering in person.
Costumes encouraged: Show up dressed up and you’ll fit right into the spooky spirit.
Boorito Costume Contest: Post your costume on TikTok with #BooritoCostumeContest for a chance to win a Chipotle VIP card worth $500 in free food.
Extra treats: Throughout October, Chipotle is also offering “Chip-or-Treat” perks like free guac, double protein, and bonus rewards points.

🎬 Final Bite

Halloween 2025 is all about immersive fun. Whether you’re streaming the latest Halloween movies, rocking a viral-worthy Halloween costume, or scoring the Chipotle Halloween deal, this year promises thrills, chills, and delicious bites.

So grab your popcorn, prep your outfit, and don’t forget to hit Chipotle for that $6 Boorito. Happy haunting, America!

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IT & Telecom

Analyzing the US Justice Department’s Lawsuit Against Apple: Unpacking the Alleged Smartphone Monopoly

Published

2 years ago

March 21, 2024

Abdul Rahman

In a significant move, the US Justice Department, along with fifteen states and the District of Columbia, has filed a lawsuit against tech giant Apple, accusing the company of maintaining an illegal monopoly in the smartphone market. This legal action marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing antitrust scrutiny faced by major tech companies and signals a new chapter in regulatory efforts under the Biden administration.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Allegations

The core of the lawsuit revolves around the claim that Apple has established an unlawful monopoly in the smartphone industry, particularly concerning its iPhone products. The Justice Department and participating states argue that Apple’s control over key aspects of its ecosystem, such as the App Store and app distribution, stifles competition and harms consumers by limiting choice and potentially driving up prices.

Impact on Consumers and Competition

The implications of this legal battle extend beyond Apple and have broader implications for consumers and the competitive landscape of the tech industry. If the allegations hold, it could lead to significant changes in how smartphones are marketed, sold, and used, potentially opening up opportunities for increased competition and innovation.

Legal Precedents and Antitrust Regulations

Antitrust laws are designed to promote fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices that harm consumers or stifle innovation. By examining past cases and legal precedents, we can gain insights into how this lawsuit against Apple fits within the broader framework of antitrust regulations and enforcement.

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Apple’s Response and Defense Strategies

As expected, Apple has vehemently denied the allegations put forth by the Justice Department and states involved in the lawsuit. The company is likely to deploy a range of defence strategies to counter these claims, including highlighting its contributions to innovation, consumer choice, and economic growth.

The Role of Regulatory Bodies in Tech Industry Oversight

The lawsuit against Apple underscores the growing role of regulatory bodies in overseeing tech companies’ practices and ensuring compliance with antitrust laws. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, regulators face the challenge of balancing innovation with fair competition to protect consumers’ interests.

Future Implications for Tech Industry Dynamics

The outcome of this legal battle will have far-reaching implications for not only Apple but also other tech giants operating in similar markets. Depending on how this case unfolds, we may witness shifts in industry dynamics, regulatory approaches, and consumer preferences that could reshape the tech landscape for years to come.

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AI

Microsoft’s Strategic Move: DeepMind Co-founder Suleyman to Lead Consumer AI Unit, Absorbing Inflection Staff

Published

2 years ago

March 20, 2024

Abdul Rahman

Table of Contents

Introduction

In a significant development in the tech industry, Microsoft has made a strategic move by hiring DeepMind co-founder, Mustafa Suleyman, to lead its consumer AI unit. This decision not only highlights Microsoft’s commitment to advancing in the AI sector but also signifies a consolidation of talent and expertise within the company.

The Significance of Microsoft’s Hire

Microsoft’s decision to bring on board Mustafa Suleyman, a prominent figure in the AI community, underscores the company’s focus on strengthening its position in the consumer AI space. Suleyman’s background and experience in artificial intelligence make him a valuable addition to Microsoft’s leadership team.

Implications for Microsoft’s Consumer AI Unit

With Suleyman at the helm of its consumer AI unit, Microsoft is poised to drive innovation and enhance its offerings in areas such as virtual assistants, personalized recommendations, and more. The infusion of talent from Suleyman’s AI start-up, Inflection, further bolsters Microsoft’s capabilities in delivering cutting-edge AI solutions to consumers.

Consolidating Microsoft’s Lead in the Sector

By absorbing most of the staff from Inflection, Microsoft is not only expanding its talent pool but also leveraging the expertise and insights gained from Suleyman’s team. This move positions Microsoft as a frontrunner in the competitive AI landscape, enabling the company to stay ahead of the curve and deliver impactful AI-driven experiences to users.

The Future of Consumer AI at Microsoft

Under Suleyman’s leadership, Microsoft is expected to drive forward-thinking initiatives that push the boundaries of consumer AI. With a focus on user-centric innovation and ethical AI practices, Microsoft is poised to shape the future of AI-powered technologies and services for consumers worldwide.

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Conclusion

Microsoft’s decision to appoint Mustafa Suleyman to lead its consumer AI unit marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey towards advancing in the AI space. By combining talent from Inflection with its existing resources, Microsoft is well-positioned to drive innovation, deliver exceptional consumer experiences, and solidify its lead in the ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence.

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