In the aftermath of a magnitude 6.8 earthquake that struck the southern Philippines, the death toll has risen to six, with two others reported missing, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 72 km and hit near Sarangani town in Davao Occidental province, has left at least 450 people in the affected areas requiring medical care.
Edgardo Posadas, director of the disaster agency, mentioned that details of the reported deaths and missing persons in the Mindanao region are still being validated. The offshore quake, which occurred at 4:14 p.m. on Friday, damaged buildings and houses in several areas on Mindanao island.
Aftershocks continue to shake the region, causing additional concerns for the affected population. The disaster agency is actively assessing the casualties and the extent of damage caused by the earthquake.
The Philippines, situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” experiences frequent seismic activities. While there were no immediate reports of casualties, the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) reported a magnitude 6.7 earthquake in the same region, with the United States Geological Survey indicating a magnitude of 6.9. Authorities have ruled out the possibility of a tsunami.
Social media posts shared videos depicting the impact of the earthquake, with ceilings collapsing in large malls and people seeking shelter under tables. Temporary closures were announced at the SM City General Santos Mall and Robinsons GenSan mall, though there were no reported injuries. The earthquake caused a collapse of a school roof, adding to the overall damage.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed government agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone affected by the quake. The Philippines, located in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is accustomed to regular seismic activities and volcanic eruptions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance to those affected by the recent earthquake.
