Magnitude 7.8 Earthquake Hits Mindanao, Philippines; Tsunami Warning Issued for Eastern Indonesia

Kuala Lumpur — A strong magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the southern coast of Mindanao, Philippines, on Monday morning, triggering tsunami warnings for coastal areas in the Philippines and parts of eastern Indonesia.

The quake occurred at 7:37am Malaysia Time (WIB) with its epicentre located approximately 24–26km west-southwest of Sarangani Province. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake struck at a shallow depth of around 35–55km.

Tsunami Warning for Eastern Indonesia

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) immediately issued a tsunami warning for several coastal areas in the Philippines, with waves potentially reaching up to 3 metres above tide level.

Malaysia’s neighbouring country, Indonesia, has also activated its tsunami early warning system. The country’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has placed several regions in eastern Indonesia under Alert (Siaga) status, including parts of North Sulawesi, Gorontalo, Central Sulawesi, North Maluku and East Kalimantan.

Residents in affected coastal areas have been advised to move to higher ground immediately.

Damage Reported in Mindanao

Strong shaking was widely felt across General Santos City and Sarangani Province in Mindanao. Local reports indicate that several buildings sustained damage, including shops in General Santos and cracks at a police station in Alabel.

The local police chief in Alabel described the tremor as “the strongest earthquake we have ever experienced.”

Tremors were also felt in parts of eastern Indonesia, including Morotai in North Halmahera.

As of press time, there are no confirmed reports of fatalities, although some residents reportedly fainted due to the strong shaking.

Situation Developing

Both PHIVOLCS and BMKG are continuing to monitor the situation and possible aftershocks. Authorities have urged the public to only rely on official sources for updates and to avoid spreading unverified information.

Malaysian media will continue to monitor developments, particularly any potential implications for the region.