A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Sarangani at 7:37 a.m. on June 8, 2026, causing at least three fatalities and widespread damage.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) initially recorded the quake's magnitude at 7.0. Its epicenter was located approximately 32 kilometers southwest of Maasim, Sarangani, at a depth of 33 kilometers.
Immediate Impact and Evacuations
In response to the earthquake, authorities issued tsunami warnings, urging residents in coastal areas of the Philippines and Indonesia to evacuate to higher ground.
The tsunami threat prompted evacuations in various regions, including Pagadian City, where residents of coastal barangays were advised to seek safety.
- 3 confirmed fatalities reported so far.
- Classes were suspended across multiple regions, affecting over 3.2 million students.
- General Santos International Airport temporarily halted operations due to the quake.
The quake also caused significant damage to infrastructure, including schools and public buildings. In Davao del Sur, an old building at Matanao National High School collapsed.
An old building at Matanao National High School in Davao del Sur collapsed following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on the first day of classes on Monday, June 8.
Lorenzo Mendoza, Schools Division Superintendent
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is mobilizing aid for affected communities. Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured prompt response efforts to support those impacted.
Phivolcs has indicated that the tsunami waves could arrive at various times, with initial predictions suggesting impacts could be felt until 9:37 a.m. and potentially lasting for hours.
Japan and Indonesia have also issued advisories and evacuation orders following the earthquake, demonstrating the regional implications of the seismic event.
As the situation develops, officials continue to assess damage and coordinate response efforts across the affected areas.