A major 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck offshore near Sarangani province in southern Mindanao early Monday morning, causing significant damage, building collapses, and triggering tsunami warnings across the region. The quake has claimed at least 19 to 32 lives so far, with the toll expected to rise as rescue operations continue.
The earthquake hit at approximately 7:37 a.m. local time (Philippine Standard Time), with its epicenter located about 32 kilometers west of Maasim in Sarangani province, near General Santos City. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the quake occurred at a depth of around 33-35 kilometers and was attributed to subduction along the Cotabato Trench. It was followed by numerous aftershocks, including one as strong as magnitude 6.7.
As of the latest updates, authorities report at least 19 confirmed deaths, with some sources indicating the toll has reached 32. More than 200 people have been injured, many from collapsing structures and debris. Fatalities have been reported in the Soccsksargen region, including General Santos City, as well as in Davao Occidental and South Cotabato.
Dozens of buildings, including commercial structures, a shopping center, and schools, sustained heavy damage or collapsed in General Santos City. Videos from the scene show residents fleeing as clouds of dust rose from rubble-strewn streets. Power outages and infrastructure damage have been widespread. A school building reportedly collapsed during the first day of classes after the summer break, though timely earthquake drills helped many students escape unharmed.
The quake prompted tsunami warnings for coastal areas in the southern Philippines and neighboring countries, with waves of up to 1-1.5 meters reported in some locations. Evacuations were ordered, but the major threat later receded, and warnings were lifted. The shaking was felt as far as 420 kilometers away in parts of Indonesia.
Philippine authorities, including the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), military units, and humanitarian organizations like the Red Cross, have mobilized search and rescue teams. Classes have been suspended in affected areas, and thousands of residents have been displaced. Officials warn that the death toll and full extent of damage may increase as teams reach more isolated villages and continue clearing rubble amid persistent aftershocks.
This is one of the strongest earthquakes to hit the Philippines in decades, underscoring the country’s position along the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire. International condolences and offers of assistance have begun arriving from around the world.
This remains a rapidly developing situation. Readers are advised to follow official PHIVOLCS and government channels for the latest safety information and updates.
Stay safe, Mindanao.
