Tsunami warning issued in Philippines following 7.8 magnitude earthquake

The Philippines issued a tsunami warning on June 8, 2026, following a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck the southern island of Mindanao. The country's seismology agency, Phivolcs, announced that the first tsunami waves were anticipated to reach the coastlines between 7:37 a.m. and 9:37 a.m. local time.

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The waves may continue for hours.

Phivolcs Director Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol warned that the tsunami waves could persist for hours and potentially exceed normal tide levels by more than a meter. Coastal residents were strongly advised to evacuate to higher ground or move further inland. The agency also reported an additional 7.0-magnitude earthquake in the southern Philippines, cautioning that dangerous aftershocks were possible.

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The agency warned that waves are expected to reach more than a meter above normal tide levels and "strongly advised" those in coastal areas to "evacuate to higher ground" or "move further inland."

Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. implored all affected residents to comply with the tsunami warning. He stressed that his government would not abandon Mindanao and urged people to prioritize their safety. "Move to higher ground, do not wait," Marcos stated. "Life is more important than anything left behind."

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Move to higher ground, do not wait. Life is more important than anything left behind.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center indicated that waves of up to 3 meters were possible on some Philippine coasts. Smaller tsunami waves were also anticipated in Taiwan, Japan, Guam, Papua New Guinea, and other western Pacific regions. Tremors from the earthquake were felt as far away as the Indonesian provinces of North Sulawesi and North Maluku.

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I am in "constant communication with regional offices and offices on the ground," further noting that classes across all education levels are canceled until further notice.