A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the Mindanao region in the southern Philippines on Monday morning, causing widespread concern and prompting emergency response efforts across affected areas.
According to preliminary reports, the earthquake occurred at approximately 7:37 a.m. local time and was felt in multiple provinces throughout the region. Residents reported strong shaking, leading to scenes of panic as people rushed outdoors for safety.
Images shared on social media showed students taking cover inside schools as the ground trembled. Authorities have also reported damage to several structures, with some buildings suffering partial collapses.
Officials confirmed that multiple fatalities have been reported following the disaster, while rescue and assessment teams continue to gather information from affected communities.
Emergency services remain on high alert as authorities work to determine the full extent of the damage and provide assistance to residents impacted by the earthquake.
Social media video showed dozens of terrified elementary schoolchildren crouching down outdoors as the ground beneath them swayed violently in the province of Davao Occidental. Other footage showed a high school campus roof which had collapsed while pupils lined up outside the school’s sports field in Davao Del Sur. No injuries were reported in both incidents.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he has “directed all relevant government agencies to act immediately” to evacuate residents and start rescue work.
