Mindanao: A powerful magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck the southern Philippines, killing at least 15 people, damaging buildings, and triggering widespread panic across Mindanao as rescue teams rushed to search for survivors trapped under debris.
According to the Philippines’ national disaster agency, 15 fatalities have been confirmed so far, including 12 deaths in the Soccsksargen region of Mindanao and three in Davao Occidental province. Authorities warned that the toll could rise as emergency responders continue rescue operations in affected areas.
Robert Dagon, an official with the General Santos City Police, said numerous structures suffered damage, although authorities remain focused on rescue efforts. Dagon stated that, “Many buildings were affected, but I cannot enumerate them now because we are busy with ongoing rescues.”
The earthquake’s epicentre was located approximately 13 kilometres southwest of General Santos City on Mindanao island. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported the quake struck at 7:37 a.m. local time, while the US Geological Survey measured its magnitude at 7.8 and depth at about 55 kilometres.
Videos circulating online showed significant structural damage across General Santos City, including the collapse of the upper floor of a Jollibee restaurant and sections of a commercial complex. Images from the city also revealed destroyed storefronts, shattered glass, and debris-strewn streets.
In Davao del Sur, part of a high school building collapsed as students gathered outside. Footage shared by local media showed students scrambling to safety during the incident. Power outages were reported in several areas, while authorities urged residents to move to higher ground following initial tsunami warnings.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre initially warned that waves of up to three metres could affect parts of the Philippines, with smaller waves possible in Indonesia and Malaysia. However, the centre later stated that the tsunami threat had largely passed.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said evacuation centres had been activated and government agencies were assessing damage while clearing routes for emergency responders. “The safety of our children comes first,” Marcos said, announcing the suspension of classes in affected areas until further notice.
The quake struck on the same day public schools reopened for the new academic year, intensifying concerns for student safety. Videos from schools in Davao showed frightened pupils seeking shelter as tremors shook classrooms and school grounds.
The Philippine Red Cross reported deploying teams to several schools to provide support and counselling to students affected by the disaster. Residents in parts of Indonesia, particularly North Sulawesi and North Maluku provinces, also reported feeling the tremors.
The Philippines is among the world’s most disaster-prone nations due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for intense seismic and volcanic activity. The country also experiences numerous tropical storms and typhoons each year, making natural disasters a recurring challenge for communities nationwide.
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