A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Mindanao on Monday, collapsing a building at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in General Santos City and triggering tsunami warnings. At least one dead. (Image: Facebook/Philippine National Red Cross)
A powerful earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao early Monday, sending residents fleeing into the streets, toppling buildings and triggering tsunami alerts across parts of the southern Philippines.
One building at the Notre Dame of Dadiangas University’s Integrated Basic Education Department in General Santos City partially collapsed during the shaking, sending plumes of dust and debris across the campus as students and staff evacuated. Images and videos circulating on social media showed significant structural damage to the school, with rescue and assessment efforts underway.
The quake struck at 7:37 a.m. local time, with Philippine authorities reporting a magnitude of 7.8 (some international estimates varied slightly). Its epicenter was located offshore, roughly 13 to 26 kilometers southwest of General Santos City near Sarangani province, at a relatively shallow depth that amplified the ground shaking. Affected areas reported Intensity VIII — severe enough to cause considerable damage.
Tsunami warnings
“Officials said the tremor killed at least one person and injured several others in the initial hours, with the toll expected to rise as teams comb through damaged structures. Widespread power outages disrupted the region, schools and workplaces suspended classes and operations, and residents reported cracked walls, fallen ceilings, and collapsed commercial buildings, including damage to a fast‑food outlet.
Authorities promptly issued tsunami warnings for coastal communities in Mindanao and nearby areas, prompting residents to evacuate to higher ground. They warned of possible waves over one meter in some locations, though the immediate threat appeared to be easing later in the morning. Aftershocks continued to rattle the region, keeping nerves on edge.
The Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, a prominent Catholic institution serving the General Santos area, was among the most visible symbols of the quake’s impact on Monday. Local officials and the university president shared photos showing the extent of the damage as emergency responders assessed the site for trapped individuals.
Earthquake full damage
Mindanao is part of the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire. The country’s second-largest island has experienced multiple significant earthquakes in recent years. Monday’s event is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of infrastructure in the region, where many buildings may not fully meet the latest seismic standards.
Officials briefed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the situation, and he pledged national government support for relief and recovery efforts. Disaster agencies urged residents to remain vigilant for aftershocks and to avoid damaged structures.
The full scope of casualties and destruction remained unclear as of midday Monday, with communications and access still disrupted in some harder-hit pockets. Officials said damage assessments were continuing.
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