A powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of General Santos City on the southern island of Mindanao in the Philippines early Monday morning (June 8). The quake, which hit just after 7:30 a.m. local time, has resulted in at least 15 fatalities and over 100 injuries across four provinces. The earthquake caused significant damage, with dozens of buildings either collapsing or sustaining severe damage.

The epicenter was located about 8 miles southwest of General Santos, a city with a population of over 700,000, known for its tuna processing industry. The quake triggered a 3-foot tsunami that reached nearby coasts, prompting tsunami warnings across Asia and Australia. However, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed that there was no threat to coastal areas of the United States.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged residents in vulnerable areas to move to higher ground, as the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center continued to monitor sea levels for potential fluctuations. The strongest aftershock measured 6.5 in magnitude, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

In General Santos, at least three people were killed, and 130 others were injured. Several buildings, including a key access bridge, sustained dangerous cracks. The international airport in General Santos was temporarily closed, leading to the cancellation of 17 domestic flights.

Rod Sosmeña, regional director of the Office of Civil Defense, reported that the quake caused panic among residents, with many fleeing their homes. The Department of Health confirmed another death in Davao Oriental province.

The quake was caused by movement in the Cotabato Trench at a depth of 6.2 miles. The Philippines, situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," is frequently affected by seismic activity. The country experiences numerous earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location along this arc of seismic faults.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology continues to assess the situation, urging residents to remain vigilant. President Marcos has suspended classes in affected areas, emphasizing the importance of safety and urging coastal residents to evacuate immediately.

Joel Malkin