A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Monday, resulting in at least 35 fatalities and over 200 injuries, according to the Associated Press. The epicenter was located at sea off Mindanao, approximately 32 kilometers southwest of Maasim town in Sarangani province, at a depth of 33 kilometers.
Casualties and Damage
Most deaths were attributed to building collapses. In General Santos, the country's tuna capital, 13 people died due to falling debris. At least 18 lives were lost in the mountainside town of Glan, primarily from a landslide that buried houses, as reported by Rafaelito Alejandro of the Office of Civil Defense. Additional fatalities occurred in South Cotabato, Davao Occidental, and on Balut Island, disaster-response officials told The Manila Times.
Initial government damage assessments indicate that around 2,500 homes and 117 government buildings and infrastructure were damaged across several provinces. School students attending the first day after a two-month summer break were among the injured. Nearly 6,000 public school buildings affected by the quake require evaluation before classes can resume. Authorities warned that strong aftershocks could cause buildings with cracks to collapse.
Tsunami Impact
Although a tsunami was feared, waves up to 1.4 meters above tide level were measured in the Philippines, with damage limited to six shanties on stilts in a coastal village. A gauge off Indonesia's Sulawesi island recorded a tsunami of 83 centimeters, while Palau reported waves of 30 centimeters. In Japan, Kushimoto town and Chichijima island experienced 20-centimeter waves.
Rescue and International Aid
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. dispatched top defense and mitigation officials to assist search and rescue operations, distribute food packs and building supplies, and evaluate damage to roads, bridges, and infrastructure. The United States, a treaty ally, stated readiness to assist and coordinated with Manila. New Zealand, Japan, and France also expressed support.
In Sarangani province, some areas remain accessible only by helicopter, and fears of aftershocks are slowing rescue efforts, local officials told AP. Malaysia's Sabah state, on Borneo island, was also affected by the earthquake.
Geological Context
The Philippines is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an arc of seismic faults around the ocean.
This article is based on reporting by the TOI News Desk, a dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering timely and comprehensive news.
