At least 19 people have died and more than 130 others have been injured after a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the southern Philippines, triggering tsunami warnings across several countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

The earthquake occurred off the coast of Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines, causing widespread panic and damage in several areas.

Casualties and damage reported

According to civil defence officials, at least 19 people were killed and 134 others injured. Authorities said the figures are subject to verification by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Images and videos circulating on social media showed damaged buildings and collapsed structures, including a branch of the popular fast-food chain Jollibee.

Emergency responders have been deployed to affected areas as rescue and relief operations continue.

Tsunami warnings issued

Following the earthquake, tsunami warnings were issued for the Philippines, Indonesia and Japan. Authorities later recorded waves ranging from a few centimetres to approximately 1.4 metres.

Australia and New Zealand also briefly issued tsunami advisories before withdrawing them after further assessment.

Officials continue to monitor coastal areas for any after-effects linked to the seismic activity.

Schools closed in affected areas

The earthquake coincided with the start of the new academic year in the Philippines, prompting authorities to suspend classes in several affected regions.

Philippine President Bongbong Marcos assured residents that the government would provide all necessary assistance to affected communities.

“We will not leave Mindanao behind,” he said while reviewing relief operations.

Relief efforts intensify

The Philippine Red Cross said it remains on its highest level of alert and is coordinating closely with local authorities.

General Santos City, one of the major urban centres near the earthquake’s epicentre and widely known as the country’s tuna capital, is among the areas being closely monitored.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant as aftershocks remain possible in the coming days.