UMVA has learned that a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake has struck the Mindanao region in the southern Philippines, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake.
At least 35 people have lost their lives, and over 200 others have been injured in the disaster, which hit around 7:37 a.m. local time on Monday. The earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 35 kilometres, sending shockwaves through the region.
The quake's epicentre was located off the shores near General Santos City in Sarangau province, the southernmost tip of Mindanao island. The powerful tremors caused widespread destruction, including multiple building collapses and extensive damage to infrastructure.
Tsunami warnings were triggered in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan, with waves reaching up to 1.4 metres in some areas. The alerts were also issued in Australia and New Zealand, although they were later lifted as the situation was brought under control.
The Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia are situated in a highly seismically active region known as the Ring of Fire, an arc of fault lines that circle the Pacific Basin and are prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
The earthquake has brought back painful memories of last year's deadly quake in the Philippines, which was considered the deadliest in over a decade. The disaster has left thousands of people reeling, with images and videos of destruction circulating on social media.
Footage from General Santos City, home to around 720,000 people, shows stores crumbling and concrete rubble scattered everywhere. A video filmed at Mahayhay elementary school in Davao captured students scrambling for shelter during a morning flag ceremony.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sprang into action, directing government agencies to evacuate residents, begin rescue operations, and assess the damage. Evacuation centres were readied and operational when the earthquake hit, providing a lifeline to those in need.
The president also ordered schools in affected areas to remain closed until further notice, citing concerns for the safety of children. "The safety of our children comes first," he emphasised.
As the situation continues to unfold, stories of bravery and selflessness are emerging, including that of a grandmother who risked everything to protect a child during the earthquake.
