The death toll from the powerful earthquake that struck the southern Philippines has risen to 37, while nearly 500 people have been injured as rescue teams continue searching through damaged buildings and affected communities. Authorities have also confirmed that four people remain missing.
The 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Mindanao, one of the country’s largest islands, causing widespread destruction across several provinces. Many of the fatalities were linked to collapsed buildings, falling debris, and landslides triggered by the powerful tremor.
According to disaster management authorities, around 88,000 people have been affected by the earthquake, while more than 20,000 residents have been forced to leave their homes and seek shelter in emergency accommodation centers.
Among the hardest-hit areas is General Santos City, where several buildings suffered severe structural damage. Rescue workers have continued operations in damaged commercial and residential structures amid concerns that additional victims could still be trapped beneath the rubble.
The disaster also caused significant damage to public infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, roads, and government facilities. Authorities have suspended classes in the affected regions while inspections are carried out to determine whether buildings are safe for use.
The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings across parts of the Philippines and neighboring countries, prompting large-scale evacuations along coastal areas. Although tsunami waves were later recorded, the warnings were eventually lifted and only limited coastal damage was reported.
Government agencies, supported by emergency responders and international partners, are continuing relief and recovery efforts as aftershocks remain a concern. The Philippines, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries and regularly experiences major seismic activity.
