A devastating magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck the southern Philippines early Monday, June 8, leaving at least 35 people dead and 144 injured. The quake, which hit about 20 kilometers off Sarangani province, triggered tsunami warnings across several countries and caused widespread destruction in Mindanao.
Destruction in General Santos City
Drone footage captured the aftermath in General Santos City, one of the hardest-hit areas. The video shows tilted houses and buildings with collapsed walls and roofs. Residents were seen assessing the damage as emergency crews searched for survivors.
Regional Impact
The tremors were felt strongly across Mindanao and as far as Manado, Indonesia, located 420 kilometers away. The earthquake also prompted tsunami warnings for coastal areas, though no major waves were reported. Most casualties resulted from falling debris and landslides.
Recent Seismic Activity
This disaster comes eight months after a shallow 6.9-magnitude quake off Cebu killed 79 people, marking the Philippines' deadliest tremor in 12 years. Two weeks later, two more strong quakes hit Mindanao, the strongest at magnitude 7.4. The region remains on high alert for aftershocks.
Authorities continue rescue operations and damage assessments. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology advises residents to stay vigilant as aftershocks are expected.
