Death Toll from Devastating Earthquake in Philippines Rises to 32

The death toll from the devastating earthquake in Mindanao, southern Philippines, has risen to at least 32 people, with more than 100 others injured. At least 13 of the deceased were buried under landslides in the coastal town of Glan, located in Sarangani province.

The earthquake, measuring 7.8 magnitude (previously reported as 7.7), occurred in General Santos City, a city with a population of approximately 700,000 near the southern tip of the Philippines. The tremor struck on Monday (8/6) at around 07:37 local time.

According to data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), this earthquake is the strongest to shake the Philippines since 1976 and the strongest globally in 2026. Tsunami warnings were initially issued for the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, and Guam, before being partially rescinded later that afternoon.

Videos circulating on social media show a shopping mall, including a Jollibee fast-food restaurant, collapsing into rubble in General Santos City. In another location, a school building, which officials stated was unoccupied, also collapsed.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos has suspended all teaching and learning activities across Mindanao island. He has also urged residents in coastal areas to evacuate immediately.

“Do not wait. Your lives are more important than anything left behind,” he stated firmly during an emergency warning.

Operations at General Santos City Airport have also been temporarily suspended.