An elderly woman is being hailed as a hero online after a video captured her instinctively protecting her grandson during a powerful earthquake that struck the Philippines.
The viral footage shows the grandmother pulling the child close and shielding him as the ground began shaking during the 7.8-magnitude quake that hit the country’s southern region on Monday.
Video sparks emotional reactions
The clip quickly spread across social media platforms, with thousands of users praising the woman’s calmness and selfless response during the terrifying moments.
Many described her as a “superhero grandmother”, noting that her first reaction was to ensure the child’s safety despite the danger around her.
The video also prompted discussions about disaster preparedness and the importance of protecting children during emergencies.
Internet applauds grandmother’s courage
Several users expressed admiration for her quick thinking.
“Seeing real-time footage like this really puts into perspective how terrifying a 7.8 magnitude quake is,” one user commented, while another said the grandmother’s reaction reflected a natural instinct to protect loved ones.
Others offered prayers for those affected by the disaster and praised rescue teams working in impacted areas.
Powerful earthquake causes devastation
According to reports, the earthquake struck about 20 kilometres off the coast of Sarangani province. Tremors were felt across Mindanao and even in parts of neighbouring Indonesia.
The quake also triggered tsunami warnings in several countries across the region.
Reports indicate that at least 37 people lost their lives and hundreds were injured in the disaster, making it one of the most significant seismic events in the region this year.
The Philippines frequently experiences earthquakes due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most seismically active zones.
Amid the devastation, the grandmother’s act of courage has become a symbol of love, resilience and the instinctive bond between family members during moments of crisis.