At least 15 people have been confirmed dead after a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Monday, causing widespread destruction, triggering tsunami warnings and forcing thousands of residents to flee coastal communities.
The massive quake struck offshore south of General Santos City, one of the largest urban centres in the country’s south, prompting emergency authorities to order immediate evacuations in vulnerable coastal areas.
Rescue teams were deployed across affected communities as several buildings collapsed under the force of the tremor. Images and videos circulating online showed extensive damage, including a shopping complex housing a Jollibee restaurant reduced to rubble and a school building collapsing in another area.
The United States Geological Survey reported a series of strong aftershocks following the main quake, with the most powerful measuring 6.5 in magnitude.
According to disaster management officials, at least 15 deaths had been recorded by Monday afternoon, with 12 fatalities reported in the Soccsksargen region, which includes General Santos City, and three others in Davao Occidental Province.
However, local police said the toll could rise further. In Alabel, a municipality near General Santos, two people were reportedly crushed to death when a wall collapsed during the quake.
Emergency responders continued search-and-rescue operations at damaged structures amid fears that more victims could be trapped beneath debris.
In response to the disaster, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the suspension of classes across Mindanao Island and urged residents living near the coast to evacuate immediately.
READ ALSO: Death Toll from Philippines Earthquake Climbs to 69, Hospitals Overwhelmed
“Move to higher ground now. Do not wait. Your life is more important than anything left behind,” the president said.
Authorities reported that tens of thousands of residents in coastal communities had already relocated to designated evacuation centres. In Kiamba, a town near the quake’s epicentre, officials said about 80 per cent of the population had moved to safer areas.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued alerts warning that tsunami waves could affect coastlines in the Philippines, Indonesia, Palau, Taiwan and Papua New Guinea. Neighbouring countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia and Japan, also activated precautionary measures, although Japan later reported only minor wave activity along parts of its Pacific coastline.
The earthquake also disrupted transportation, with officials announcing the temporary closure of General Santos Airport while safety inspections were carried out.
The Philippines is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone nations due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for intense seismic and volcanic activity. Earthquakes frequently strike the archipelago, often causing significant damage and loss of life.
Rescue efforts and damage assessments were continuing late Monday as authorities worked to account for missing persons and provide assistance to affected communities.