Powerful quake strikes off Mindanao coast
A powerful Philippines earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale struck off the southern coast of Mindanao early on Monday, according to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ).
Authorities are verifying reports that at least five people have died following the quake, Reuters reported, citing the country’s civil protection agency.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said the earthquake’s epicentre was located 24.7 kilometres west-southwest of Burias, at a depth of 35 kilometres.
Tsunami warnings issued across the region
The Philippines earthquake prompted tsunami warnings from several countries across the Pacific region.
Waves measuring around 90 centimetres reached some Philippine coastlines shortly after the quake, while authorities warned that waves exceeding one metre above normal tide levels could affect coastal communities.
President Ferdinand Marcos urged residents in vulnerable areas to move to higher ground and follow official safety instructions.
Indonesia’s Geophysical Agency also issued a tsunami warning, while Japan issued an advisory for parts of its Pacific coastline.
WATCH: Major earthquake brings down building in General Santos City, Philippines pic.twitter.com/AA7pX3rZwa
— Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) June 8, 2026
Residents warned of aftershocks
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), which measured the earthquake at magnitude 7.0, warned that strong aftershocks could continue in the coming days.
Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and follow civil protection guidance as emergency teams assess the situation.
The Philippines earthquake occurred in a region frequently affected by seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most active earthquake and volcanic zones.
Building damage reported as panic spreads
Cracks were reported in a police station building in Alabel shortly after the earthquake struck during a flag-raising ceremony, according to local police chief Benji Ancheta.
While no immediate fatalities were reported in the area, several residents reportedly fainted during the strong shaking.
“This is the strongest earthquake we have experienced,” Ancheta told Reuters.
The tremor was also strongly felt in Manado, northern Indonesia, despite the epicentre being located in the Philippines.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as assessments of damage and casualties remain ongoing.
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