Translated with AI
The death toll from the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Mindanao Island in the southern Philippines has risen to 37, GMA News reported, citing the country's Office of Civil Defense (OCD).
As of Tuesday morning, 33 people have been confirmed dead in Sokkskargen region, and four more have died in Davao region. The OCD noted that most of the victims suffered fatal injuries from collapses and falling structures.
The natural disaster left 456 people injured, with four more missing. The earthquake affected more than 17,600 families, or approximately 77,000 people.
Search and rescue operations are primarily underway in General Santos City and Sarangani Province, which suffered the most severe damage. A disaster zone has been declared in General Santos. Rescue teams are also continuing their work in other affected areas.
According to preliminary estimates, the storm damaged nine bridges and 19 sections of roads. Additionally, more than 1,800 residential buildings were damaged, of which approximately 1,500 were completely destroyed.
Many residents continue to remain in open areas due to aftershocks and concerns about building safety. Authorities are considering setting up temporary shelters and tent cities to accommodate evacuees.
As previously reported, a powerful earthquake struck on Monday at 2:38 a.m. Moscow time in the Celebes Sea off the southern coast of Mindanao Island. An aftershock of magnitude 6.8 was recorded at 3:55 a.m. The epicenter of the tremors was located 51 kilometers south of General Santos. The U.S. Geological Survey estimated the magnitude of the main quake at 7.8.
