At least 19 people died as a result of a strong earthquake in the south of the Philippines. This was reported by the Associated Press agency reported.
According to reports, the epicenter of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake was located near the coast of Mindanao island, around the city of General Santos. Several strong aftershocks were also recorded after the main tremor, one of which had a magnitude of 6.7.
According to local authorities, most of the deceased died as a result of building collapses, landslides, and being trapped under debris. More than 200 people were injured as a result of the natural disaster.
The earthquake caused serious damage to residential buildings, schools, roads and other infrastructure facilities in a number of areas. Also, power outages were observed.
After the natural disaster, a tsunami warning was issued for the coastal areas of the Philippines and neighboring countries. Later, this warning was cancelled by experts.
Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. ordered the temporary suspension of educational activities in affected areas and the involvement of additional forces and resources for recovery efforts.
Currently, rescue services are continuing to clear debris and search for potential victims.
For reference, one of the most devastating earthquakes in the history of the Philippines occurred on August 17, 1976 in the Moro Gulf. This earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.9–8.1, and the subsequent tsunami resulted in approximately 5,000 to 8,000 deaths.
