Jakarta, ThedailyID — A powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao in the southern Philippines on Monday morning, killing at least 15 people and injuring more than 130 others, according to local authorities.
The earthquake hit near Sarangani Province at around 7:37 a.m. local time. Tremors shook large parts of Mindanao and were felt as far away as North Sulawesi in Indonesia, roughly 420 kilometers from the epicenter.
Authorities issued tsunami warnings across the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, and several Pacific regions shortly after the quake. Officials later lifted most alerts after monitoring sea-level changes and confirming that the threat had diminished.
The quake caused significant damage in General Santos City and nearby areas. Several buildings collapsed, roads suffered damage, and power outages affected parts of the region. Emergency crews also responded to landslides and damaged infrastructure.
Many of the casualties resulted from falling debris and building collapses. Disaster officials warned that the death toll could rise as rescue teams continue searching damaged structures and remote communities.
The earthquake struck on the first day of the new school year in many parts of the Philippines. Videos circulating online showed students and teachers scrambling for safety as strong shaking interrupted school activities.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered an immediate disaster response. Government agencies, military units, and emergency teams deployed across affected areas to assist victims and assess damage.
Seismologists recorded more than 100 aftershocks following the main quake, including several strong tremors above magnitude 6. Officials urged residents to avoid damaged buildings and remain alert for additional aftershocks.
The Philippines sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most active seismic zones. The region experiences frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity due to the movement of multiple tectonic plates.
