The Philippines struck by a 7,8 magnitude earthquake. Deaths, collapsed buildings, and a tsunami warning.

A powerful 7,8 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Monday at 7:37 a.m. local time, off the coast of Mindanao Island. The epicenter was located approximately 32 kilometers south-southwest of Maasim, in Sarangani province, at an estimated depth of 33 kilometers. The tectonic quake was felt in several provinces in the southern part of the archipelago.

General Santos hit hard

General Santos, a major port city in southern Mindanao, is among the hardest-hit areas. Buildings have been damaged or partially collapsed, including businesses, university facilities, and public infrastructure. Roads have been blocked by debris, and some establishments have been evacuated due to cracks deemed concerning.

A still provisional assessment

The death toll remains fluid. At least 12 people have been killed and more than 200 injured, mainly in damaged buildings or by falling debris. Other preliminary reports indicate at least 15 deaths, as authorities continue to verify information coming from the affected areas.

A tsunami alert

The quake triggered tsunami warnings in several coastal areas. Waves of about one meter were measured in the provinces of Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani, while an 83-centimeter wave was recorded off the coast of Sulawesi, Indonesia. The main threat subsequently subsided, with no immediate reports of major damage or casualties directly related to the waves.

The eSchools, hospitals and transport disrupted

The earthquake struck as classes were resuming, causing panic in several schools. Students and teachers were evacuated, as some children sustained minor injuries or felt unwell during the tremors. In General Santos, the international airport was temporarily closed and 17 domestic flights were canceled.

Relief operations continue in Mindanao. Military units, disaster management teams, and local rescue workers have been deployed to assess the damage, secure weakened buildings, and assist displaced residents. Several aftershocks have been recorded following the main quake, some strong enough to raise concerns about further collapses.

An archipelago prone to major earthquakes

The Philippines lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area of ​​intense seismic and volcanic activity. The country is regularly struck by destructive earthquakes, along with typhoons, landslides, and floods. In Mindanao, the immediate priority remains a full assessment of the damage, the care of the injured, and the evacuation of residents living near the coast or in weakened buildings.