A devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the southern Philippines near Mindanao on Monday, June 8, 2026, leaving at least 32 people dead and more than 200 injured. The quake, which hit at 7:37 a.m. local time, caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings and triggering landslides.
Deadly Impact and Response
The earthquake was centered at sea off Mindanao island at a depth of 33 kilometers, about 32 kilometers southwest of Maasim town in Sarangani province. It was the strongest quake to hit the Philippines this year, according to Teresito Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
In General Santos City, several low-rise buildings collapsed or sustained heavy damage. A landslide in Glan, Sarangani, killed 13 villagers, and four others died elsewhere in the province. Authorities reported that deaths were caused by falling debris, landslides, and building collapses.
Tsunami Alerts and Aftershocks
A tsunami alert was issued for the Philippines, parts of Southeast Asia, and even the United States. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later stated that the threat had largely passed. Tsunami waves of about one meter were recorded in six areas, including Maasim, Kiamba, and Kalamansig. Smaller waves were detected in Indonesia, Palau, and southern Japan.
PHIVOLCS warned of possible aftershocks lasting days or weeks, as well as risks of landslides, rock falls, ground liquefaction, sinkholes, and fissures.
Government and International Response
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged residents in vulnerable coastal areas to move to higher ground, stating, "Your life is more important than anything left behind. The national government is moving and we will not leave Mindanao behind." The UK Foreign Office updated its travel advice, urging Britons in the area to follow local authorities, move to higher ground, and avoid damaged buildings.
Local disaster officials reported that 37 buildings were damaged, mostly commercial. In General Santos, the airport was evacuated after its ceiling collapsed. Rescue operations continue as officials assess the full extent of the damage.
