Key facts
- A magnitude-7.8 earthquake hit the southern Philippines on Monday.
- At least 37 people died, 479 were injured, and four are missing.
- The earthquake caused significant structural damage to buildings, including homes, a restaurant, a commercial complex, and a high school.
- Tsunami alerts were issued for coastal areas in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
- Over 88,000 people were affected, with more than 20,000 displaced.
- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered school suspensions in affected regions.
A magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck the southern Philippines early Monday, causing significant destruction and loss of life. The quake's epicentre was located near Sarangani province, with tremors felt across Mindanao and even in Manado, Indonesia. Authorities confirmed at least 37 fatalities, hundreds of injuries, and four missing individuals, primarily due to collapsing structures and landslides. Videos verified by news outlets showed the severe damage, including the collapse of a popular fast-food restaurant and parts of a commercial complex and a high school.
Emergency services reported that approximately 88,000 people were affected, with over 20,000 displaced from their homes. Several hospitals were damaged, leading to makeshift medical treatment areas. Tsunami warnings were issued for coastal regions in the Philippines, northern Indonesia, and Malaysia's Sabah state, prompting evacuations, but were later cancelled after several hours.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured that evacuation centers were operational and that government agencies were assessing the damage and clearing routes for rescue efforts. He also ordered the suspension of schools in the affected areas to prioritize the safety of children. The Philippines is situated on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' making it highly susceptible to seismic activity.