Breaking News: 7.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Southern Philippines
A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines early Monday morning, just before 7:40 AM local time. The epicenter was located offshore, approximately 32 kilometers west of Maasim in Sarangani province, at a depth of 33 kilometers.
At least 15 people are feared dead, and 129 others have been reported injured, primarily due to falling debris. Schools had recently reopened, and the tremors were felt in a dozen provinces, including areas as far as 420 kilometers away in Indonesia.
Philippine authorities are currently assessing the damage. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported 138 aftershocks, with the strongest measuring 6.7.
Tsunami alerts have been issued for the southern Philippines, northern Indonesia, and the Malaysian state of Sabah. A small tsunami wave of 0.75 meters was detected in parts of North Sulawesi, prompting evacuations.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered an immediate disaster response, directing agencies to prepare relief supplies and evacuation centers. The military has deployed disaster response units to affected areas.
The full extent of the damage and casualties is still being evaluated.
