At least 19 people have died following a major earthquake off the coast of the Mindanao island in the southern Philippines, authorities announced on Monday.
The 7.8 magnitude quake struck early Monday morning at 7:37 local time (1:37 German time). The event prompted tsunami warnings across several nations, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, and Australia, though these warnings were later lifted. Following the main tremor, numerous aftershocks were recorded, with magnitudes ranging from 1.3 to 6.7.
Media reports indicate that many individuals were injured during the earthquake, and videos showing structures collapsing were circulated widely on social media.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a statement confirming that he had instructed all relevant government agencies to act immediately. He pledged, “We will not leave Mindanao behind.” Furthermore, President Marcos ordered the suspension of schooling in the affected regions, just as the new school year was beginning in the Philippines.
