The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has released urgent travel advice this morning following a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines. The quake occurred on Monday, June 8, with tremors felt in Davao City shortly before 7:40 am local time.
Casualties and Impact
At least 12 people have been reported dead, and more than 200 are injured as a result of the disaster. The earthquake was initially estimated at a magnitude of 8.2, but the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre has since downgraded it to 7.0. Aftershocks are expected, and there may be damage to buildings and infrastructure in affected areas.
Tsunami Alerts and Evacuations
Following the tremor, possible tsunami alerts have been issued for several regions, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, Palau, Yap, Taiwan, Papua New Guinea, and the west coast of the United States. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has advised residents and visitors in affected coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground.
FCDO Advice for British Nationals
The FCDO has warned British nationals who are scheduled to travel to the area. The official update states: "On 8 June 2026, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck southern Mindanao. Aftershocks are expected, and there may be damage to buildings and infrastructure in affected areas. PHIVOLCS has issued a tsunami threat and advised residents and visitors in affected coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground."
If you are in the affected area:
- Follow the advice of local authorities and emergency services
- Move to higher ground if you are in coastal areas
- Be aware of the risk of aftershocks
- Avoid damaged buildings and infrastructure
- Monitor local media and official sources for updates
If you are planning to travel to Mindanao:
- Contact your travel provider for updates
- Ensure your travel insurance covers natural disasters
- Stay informed via PHIVOLCS and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)
The FCDO warns that travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
Philippine Government Response
President Bongbong Marcos has issued a statement following the earthquake: "A strong earthquake has struck off the coast of Sarangani this morning, and a tsunami warning is now in effect across several coastal provinces in Mindanao. I have directed all relevant government agencies to act immediately. The Office of Civil Defense and the NDRRMC are now coordinating disaster response and monitoring across all affected areas. The DSWD has been directed to pre-position relief goods and ensure that evacuation centers are ready and operational. The DPWH is on standby to assess damage to roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure, and to clear routes needed for rescue and relief operations. I am also ordering the suspension of classes in all levels across affected areas in Mindanao until further notice. The safety of our children comes first. DepEd will coordinate with local government units on this. To our kababayans in the affected provinces, please heed the tsunami warning. Move to higher ground now. Do not wait. Your life is more important than anything left behind. The national government is moving and we will not leave Mindanao behind. I am in constant communication with our regional offices and local chief executives on the ground. Updates will be provided as the situation develops."
