Phillipines

The initial quake struck at a depth of 32 kilometres at 10:37pm local time (1:37am AEDT) about 21 kilometres north-east of Hinatuan municipality on Mindanao island, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said.

The area was quickly hit by more than two dozen aftershocks, the largest measuring magnitude 6.5, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC).

The initial quake triggered tsunami warnings and orders for coastal residents to flee to higher ground, though the US Tsunami Warning System later said the risk of large waves had passed.

Minister of State Assisting the Prime Minister, Justin Tkatchenko signed the agreement with Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Philippines on Policy Consultation recently.

The MoU will set a more structured approach to discuss issues of interests in the area of trade and investment, climate change, health, education, etc.

Minister Tkatchenko acknowledged Manalo and his delegation for availing time amidst their busy APEC schedule to sign the MoU.

They are calling for an investigation into the responsibility of big fossil fuel companies for fuelling catastrophic climate change that is resulting in human rights violations.  

The complaint, which is the first of its kind in the world, is being brought forward by typhoon survivors, advocates and non-governmental organisations, including Greenpeace Southeast Asia.