Manila: A powerful earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale struck off the southern coast of the Philippines on Monday, leaving at least one person dead, injuring several others and causing widespread structural damage, while authorities across multiple countries issued tsunami warnings as a precaution.
According to preliminary reports, the offshore earthquake occurred near Sarangani province on Mindanao island, prompting emergency agencies in the Philippines and neighbouring nations to activate disaster response measures. Residents living in low-lying coastal areas were urged to evacuate immediately and move to higher ground amid fears of tsunami waves.
Local police officials confirmed that at least one fatality and four injuries had been reported in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, though rescue operations were still underway and the number of casualties could rise as assessment teams reached affected locations.
Several buildings reportedly suffered extensive damage, including commercial establishments and educational institutions. Images and videos circulating online showed collapsed structures and rescue personnel searching through debris for possible survivors.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued advisories indicating that tsunami waves could affect coastlines in the Philippines, Indonesia, Taiwan, Palau and Papua New Guinea within hours of the earthquake. Japanese authorities also released tsunami advisories for parts of the country’s Pacific coastline, warning residents to remain alert.
A strong aftershock measuring 6.1 magnitude struck the same region roughly two hours after the initial quake, adding to concerns among emergency responders and residents already shaken by the powerful tremor.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos ordered the suspension of classes in affected parts of Mindanao and appealed to the public to prioritise safety by following evacuation instructions issued by local authorities.
Disaster management agencies in Indonesia also instructed officials in vulnerable coastal regions to begin precautionary evacuations while monitoring sea conditions for any abnormal activity linked to the quake.
The Philippines remains one of the world’s most earthquake-prone nations due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity. The latest disaster comes after a series of strong earthquakes that struck the country in recent months, underscoring the continuing threat posed by tectonic movements in the region.
Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage while search, rescue and relief operations remain in progress across the affected areas.
