The UK Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel warning following a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake on Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines. The quake, which struck early Monday morning, has claimed at least 12 lives and left over 200 people injured, according to local authorities.
Earthquake Details and Tsunami Threat
The earthquake hit near Davao City at approximately 7:40 AM local time on June 8, 2026. Initially reported as an 8.2 magnitude event, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre later downgraded it to 7.0. A tsunami warning has been issued for 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 coastal residents and visitors to evacuate to higher ground immediately.
Foreign Office Advisory for British Nationals
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel advice, warning Britons in or planning to travel to Mindanao. The advisory 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." The FCDO urges those in the area to follow local authority instructions, move to higher ground if coastal, be aware of aftershocks, avoid damaged structures, and monitor local media.
For those planning travel to Mindanao, the FCDO recommends contacting travel providers, ensuring travel insurance covers natural disasters, and staying informed via PHIVOLCS and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). Travel against FCDO advice could invalidate insurance.
Presidential Response
Philippine President Bongbong Marcos issued a statement: "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." He ordered the Office of Civil Defense and NDRRMC to coordinate disaster response, the Department of Social Welfare and Development to pre-position relief goods, and the Department of Public Works and Highways to assess infrastructure damage. Classes across affected areas are suspended until further notice. Marcos urged residents to heed the tsunami warning and move to higher ground, emphasizing that national government support is underway.
Impact and Aftershocks
The earthquake caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, with reports of collapsed structures in some areas. Aftershocks are expected to continue, posing further risks. Rescue operations are ongoing, and authorities are working to assess the full extent of casualties and damage. The NDRRMC is coordinating with local governments to provide assistance and ensure public safety.
British nationals in the region are advised to remain vigilant and follow all official guidance. The FCDO continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
