15 dead, 129 injured as 7.8 magnitude earthquake hits Southern Philippines

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.8 struck off the coast of Mindanao at 7.37 am local time on June 8, 2026, reported the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The epicenter was near the city of General Santos, located 32 kilometres south 4 degrees west of Maasim, Sarangani, at a depth of 33 kilometers, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.

As many as 15 people have been declared dead, according to officials, and around 129 people have been injured with many taken to the hospital for treatment.

According to local civil defence office director Rodrigo Sosmeña, 12 casualties were reported from the Soccsksargen region, which comprises South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City. Three more deaths were recorded in the province of Davao Occidental, according to The Hindu.

More than two dozen buildings, including shops and commercial spaces, have been damaged. Cracks in roads and structures have raised safety concerns. After the quake, several countries including the Philippines, Indonesia and Japan issued tsunami warnings. Most of these warnings have now been lifted as the situation became clearer.

The earthquake was followed by 138 aftershocks have been recorded, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, with magnitudes ranging from 1.3 to 6.7. People in affected areas remain on alert.

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has directed all agencies to act quickly. People living in coastal areas were advised to move to higher ground as a precaution. The UK government has issued safety guidance for Mindanao. People are advised to avoid damaged buildings and follow local authorities. Travellers should check updates and ensure insurance covers natural disasters.

This story will be updated with more details.