15 killed, 129 injured in massive Philippines earthquake

 Philippines – A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake has struck the Philippines, leaving at least 15 people dead and 129 others injured, according to officials from the Philippine Office of Civil Defence. Most of the deaths were reported in the Soccsksargen region, which covers South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City.

Authorities have activated emergency response agencies, while rescue teams, social workers and local government units are working to support affected families in the impacted areas. The Department of Social Welfare and Development said more than 1.1 million family food packs are available in Mindanao, with millions more prepositioned nationwide for disaster response.

Following the quake, tsunami warnings and evacuation orders were issued in parts of the Philippines, Indonesia and nearby coastal areas. People in several provinces, including Sarangani, Davao Occidental, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu, were advised to move to higher ground as officials warned of possible dangerous waves. Emergency teams remain on alert as authorities continue damage assessment and relief operations.