Tsunami Warning After Severe Earthquake Off Philippines

A severe 7.8-magnitude earthquake has shaken the southern Philippines, leading to tsunami warnings across multiple countries, including Indonesia and Japan. Reports indicate collapsed buildings and widespread panic, with authorities currently verifying information on potential fatalities and injuries.

The earthquake occurred Monday morning off the coast of Sarangani province on Mindanao Island, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The tremors were particularly strong in General Santos City, a major commercial hub, where the airport was temporarily closed. The quake's epicenter was located southwest of the municipality of Maasim in Sarangani province.

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I thought it was my end. I just started praying.

Authorities have urged residents in several coastal areas to evacuate to higher ground immediately. Tsunami warnings were also issued for neighboring Indonesia, specifically for the island of Sulawesi, and Japan cautioned about potential tidal waves along parts of its Pacific coast. Phivolcs reported that the earthquake was caused by movement along the Cotabato Trench.

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We have only been screaming because we were so scared.

Damage to numerous buildings, including schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and churches, has been reported, though the full extent remains unclear. The earthquake struck at 7:37 a.m. local time, coinciding with the first day of the new school year. Many schools and government offices were conducting flag ceremonies outdoors, which may have mitigated casualties among students and staff. Classes and operations in many public and private institutions have been suspended.

Residents described intense shaking, with one provincial reporter stating, "I thought it was my end. I just started praying." Another resident from Koronadal City recounted, "We were just screaming because we were so scared." At a school in Davao del Sur province, a building collapsed, but no injuries were reported as students and staff were outside for a flag ceremony. The building had been damaged in a previous earthquake in 2019 and was slated for demolition.

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Fortunately, our flag ceremony was taking place and everyone was outside.