Magnitude 7.8 earthquake strikes near Mindanao, at least 32 dead as tsunami warnings issued

A powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck near the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Monday morning, leaving at least 32 people dead, according to preliminary reports from authorities. More than 100 people were injured, about two dozen remain missing, and roughly 10,000 residents have been evacuated from affected areas.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at approximately 7:40 a.m. local time and had a depth of about 33 kilometres. Tsunami warnings were issued for several countries following the quake as authorities assessed potential coastal impacts.

The tremors were felt across more than a dozen provinces in the Philippines, officials said. Shaking was also reported in the Indonesian city of Manado on Sulawesi Island, approximately 420 kilometres from the earthquake's epicentre.

Emergency management agencies are continuing damage assessments and search efforts in affected communities. Authorities have urged residents to stay away from coastal areas and follow official safety instructions while tsunami advisories remain in effect.