PHILIPPINES — 8 June 2026, A powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Sarangani in the southern Philippines on Monday morning, causing building collapses, killing at least four people, injuring more than 200 others and triggering tsunami warnings across parts of Mindanao.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST), the earthquake occurred at 07:37 local time. The epicentre was located off the coast of Sarangani Province and the quake was felt across a wide area of Mindanao.
Authorities confirmed significant structural damage in General Santos City, where several buildings collapsed during the earthquake. Emergency crews were deployed to assess damaged structures and assist affected residents.
Officials said at least four people were killed and more than 200 injured in the disaster. Many of the injuries occurred as people rushed to evacuate buildings during the strong shaking.
The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings for coastal communities across southern Philippines, prompting evacuations in vulnerable areas. Tsunami waves of up to 1 metre were later recorded along parts of the Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat coastline.
Although tsunami waves reached shore, the anticipated large-scale tsunami did not occur and the immediate threat has largely subsided. Authorities nevertheless urged residents to continue following official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel to affected coastal areas.
Power outages, infrastructure damage and transport disruptions were reported in several areas, while damage assessments continued across the region. Strong aftershocks were also recorded following the main quake.
The earthquake is believed to have originated along the Cotabato Trench, part of the tectonically active boundary where the Philippine Sea Plate subducts beneath the Eurasian Plate.
Rescue and recovery operations remain underway as authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage.
