One of the most destructive earthquakes in recent years struck the southern Philippines. The tremors with a magnitude of 7.8 led to at least 32 deaths, over 130 injuries, and authorities were forced to issue a tsunami warning.
A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 struck the southern Philippines on Monday, resulting in at least 32 fatalities. According to authorities, the number of injured has already exceeded 130 and may rise as information comes in from affected areas.
The epicenter of the tremors was located off the coast of General Santos City on Mindanao Island. The earthquake's focus was at a depth of about ten kilometers, which intensified the destructive impact on populated areas.
The disaster caused significant damage to infrastructure. Roads and bridges were damaged, and buildings collapsed.
Among the most severely affected structures was a shopping mall in General Santos. Videos circulated on social media and confirmed by news agencies showed part of the building collapsing along with a fast-food restaurant located inside.
A school building also collapsed. Fortunately, there were no people inside at the time of the earthquake, which helped avoid additional casualties.
What is important to know: the strong destruction was caused not only by the earthquake itself but also by a series of aftershocks that followed. The strongest of these reached a magnitude of 6.5.
After the initial shock, the tremors continued for about two hours. This complicated rescue efforts and forced many residents to leave their homes due to fears of further collapses.
Immediately after the earthquake, the authorities of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan issued a tsunami warning. Later, most warnings were lifted after analyzing the situation in the Pacific Ocean.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos stated that he instructed government agencies to immediately begin disaster response efforts. Residents of the most vulnerable coastal areas were urged to temporarily evacuate to higher ground.
The aftermath of the earthquake also affected daily life in the region. Classes were canceled on Mindanao Island, where the new school year was supposed to start on that day.
Additionally, General Santos Airport has been closed until further notice, complicating transportation and aid delivery.
The Philippines is located in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the most seismically active regions in the world. However, this earthquake has become one of the most powerful and destructive for the country in recent times.
Rescue services continue to clear debris and search for people who may remain under collapsed structures.
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