Post by : Shakul
On Monday morning, a severe 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of General Santos City, Philippines, claiming the lives of at least three individuals and leaving numerous others injured. This quake, which struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, sent shockwaves of panic throughout Mindanao, leading to tsunami alerts in various Pacific nations.
Authorities reported five injuries and widespread damage to multiple commercial establishments. Emergency responders were swiftly deployed as rescue efforts progressed, with fears lingering that more victims may be trapped under debris.
One notable incident was the collapse of a Jollibee fast-food branch in General Santos City. Various images and videos shared online depicted damaged buildings, shattered glass, and frightened locals evacuating to safer areas.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology documented over 138 aftershocks, with magnitudes between 1.3 and 6.7. Officials cautioned the population to remain vigilant as significant aftershocks could follow, risking additional structural failures.
Tsunami activity was observed in several areas along Mindanao's coast and extending to regions in Indonesia and Palau, with the highest wave recorded reaching around 1.4 meters. While neighboring countries later rescinded their tsunami alerts, Philippine officials maintained warnings as they monitored ongoing sea disturbances.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. instructed all relevant agencies to act swiftly in response to the crisis. He urged coastal residence to relocate to higher ground and adhere to the evacuation orders issued by local governments. Meanwhile, air traffic at General Santos Airport was momentarily halted for safety evaluations.
Disaster response units, including the Philippine Red Cross, remain on heightened alert, with assessment teams evaluating the extent of damage and providing aid to impacted communities. Officials have advised against entering weakened structures until comprehensive inspections are completed, reiterating that public safety is their foremost priority.
English
