GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Rescue and recovery operations continued across Mindanao on Tuesday as authorities assessed the full extent of damage from the powerful earthquake that struck the southern Philippines on June 8, leaving dozens dead, hundreds injured, and thousands displaced.

According to the latest reports from disaster response agencies, at least 35 to 37 people have been confirmed dead, while hundreds more sustained injuries from collapsing structures, falling debris, and landslides. (The Guardian)

The local government of General Santos city estimates damages close to 1 billion pesos.

The earthquake, initially measured by Philippine authorities at magnitude 7.0, was later upgraded to magnitude 7.8 by both the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and international monitoring agencies. The tremor struck at approximately 7:37 a.m. Monday off the coast of Sarangani Province near General Santos City. (X (formerly Twitter))

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake generated severe shaking across large portions of Mindanao, affecting an estimated 22 million people. The USGS also noted that the quake’s offshore location and shallow depth contributed to widespread damage and the issuance of tsunami alerts across the Philippines and neighboring countries. (Wall Street Journal)

Authorities said more than 88,000 residents have been affected by the disaster, with over 20,000 forced to leave their homes due to structural damage and fears of aftershocks. Emergency shelters remain operational in several provinces, including Sarangani, South Cotabato, and parts of the Davao Region. (The Guardian)

One of the hardest-hit areas was General Santos City, where multiple buildings suffered severe damage. Videos circulating online showed portions of commercial establishments collapsing during the quake. Educational institutions also sustained damage, prompting class suspensions across affected areas. Several schools were undergoing structural inspections on Tuesday before authorities would allow students to return. (The Guardian)

PHIVOLCS reported more than 100 aftershocks following the main earthquake, including several strong tremors felt across southern Mindanao. Disaster officials warned residents to remain vigilant and avoid entering damaged buildings until safety inspections are complete. (The Sun)

Tsunami warnings issued shortly after the earthquake were later lifted after monitoring stations recorded only minor sea-level disturbances. Nevertheless, coastal residents in parts of Mindanao, Indonesia, and nearby regions were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. (Reuters)

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the mobilization of national government resources for relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts. Government agencies, local governments, and humanitarian organizations continue to conduct damage assessments while providing food, medical assistance, and temporary shelter to affected communities. (Reuters)

The Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most seismically active regions, making earthquakes a recurring threat. However, seismologists noted that the June 8 Mindanao earthquake ranks among the strongest to hit the country in recent years and may result in prolonged recovery efforts across several provinces. (The Guardian)