Overview
- The earthquake struck off Mindanao early Monday and triggered tsunami warnings that were later lifted after coastal waves of up to about 1.4 metres were recorded.
- Official tallies have risen over successive updates to at least 45 dead and more than 630 injured, with dozens still missing as assessments reach cut-off communities.
- Thousands of buildings were damaged or destroyed and General Santos City’s airport and other transport links suffered harm, prompting widespread school closures for safety checks.
- Rescue teams and the military continue search-and-rescue operations, but more than 2,000 reported aftershocks and broken roads and bridges are slowing access to isolated areas.
- The quake hit on the first day of the school year when many pupils were outdoors for flag ceremonies, and the Philippines’ location on the Pacific Ring of Fire underlines the need for sustained relief and infrastructure checks in the coming days.