Magnitude 7.8 Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 37; LGUs on Red Alert

GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — As of June 9, 2026, the death toll from the powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Sarangani has risen to 37, prompting local government units and disaster management networks to raise a code red and be on full alert.

A total of 37 fatalities have been confirmed by authorities. Meanwhile, 479 individuals have been reported injured, as assessment teams continue to evaluate the full extent of the damage to infrastructure and affected communities.

Several buildings were reported to have collapsed following the strong earthquake, trapping occupants beneath the rubble and prompting extensive search and rescue operations. As of now, 4 people are missing. Emergency responders have been deployed to affected areas to locate survivors, provide medical assistance, and assess structural damage.

According to PHIVOLCS, the earthquake was followed by a series of aftershocks, with the total number reaching 1,158. Government agencies, together with local government units (LGUs), remain on heightened alert and continue to closely monitor the situation.

The earthquake was caused by tectonic movement along the Cotabato Trench, a major offshore subduction zone located south of Mindanao. According to PHIVOLCS, the seismic activity resulted from the movement of tectonic plates beneath the trench, generating strong ground shaking that affected several areas in the region.

Countries such as Malaysia, Australia, Indonesia, and Japan have also been placed on high alert, with authorities issuing tsunami advisories as a precaution following the powerful earthquake. Coastal communities in affected areas have been urged to remain vigilant, monitor official updates, and follow evacuation instructions where necessary while authorities continue to assess the potential tsunami threat.

PHIVOLCS also urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and to follow official advisories, warning that additional aftershocks may still occur in the coming days.