Key facts
- A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck southern Mindanao, Philippines, causing widespread destruction.
- At least 45 people have died, and 17 remain missing.
- Over 2,100 aftershocks have been recorded, complicating rescue operations.
- More than 25,000 people are displaced, with many in emergency shelters.
- Significant damage occurred to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and the General Santos international airport.
Aftershocks are complicating rescue efforts in the southern Philippines following a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao. Rescuers were forced to evacuate a partially collapsed grocery store in General Santos city as it was rattled by a strong aftershock, highlighting the ongoing dangers in the region.
The earthquake, one of the most powerful to hit the Philippines in half a century, has resulted in at least 45 deaths and 17 people still missing. More than 2,100 aftershocks, some reaching up to 6.4 magnitude, have been recorded, according to the Philippines Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. Over 25,000 people remain displaced, many staying in emergency shelters.
The destruction includes more than 3,100 houses, 29 roads, 11 bridges, and over 100 government buildings. The international airport in General Santos sustained damage, forcing its closure except for government and military flights transporting aid. Approximately 6,000 public school buildings require assessment before classes can resume.
Most fatalities were caused by falling debris and landslides. The quake also generated tsunami waves up to 1.4 meters, which swept at least one person out to sea. The earthquake originated from movement in the Cotabato Trench, an area that previously triggered a devastating tsunami in 1976.