At least 31 people were killed and more than 200 others were injured after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Maasim, Sarangani, on Monday, June 8, as authorities continued assessing the full extent of damage across affected areas in Mindanao.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said the confirmed fatalities were recorded in South Central Mindanao and the Davao Region. Officials added that casualty figures remain subject to validation as search, assessment, and verification operations continue.

Initial reports pointed to widespread damage to buildings, schools, roads, utilities, and other critical infrastructure, particularly in General Santos City and neighboring provinces.

Several structures reportedly collapsed during the earthquake, including commercial establishments and school facilities, while landslides were recorded in parts of Sarangani Province.

Authorities also reported power outages, water service interruptions, and disruptions to transportation services in several affected communities.

Patients and medical staff gather under temporary outdoor triage tents outside the Sarangani Provincial Hospital compound in Alabel after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake.
Patients and healthcare personnel gather under temporary medical tents outside the Sarangani Provincial Hospital in Alabel on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, following evacuations caused by a magnitude 7.8 earthquake earlier in the week. Photo courtesy of Sarangani Provincial Information Office

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) temporarily suspended operations at General Santos Airport to allow safety inspections of airport facilities and ensure passenger safety.

Meanwhile, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon inspected earthquake-hit areas in Sarangani and General Santos City and ordered the immediate repair of damaged government buildings and infrastructure, according to a statement from the agency.

Local governments continue to conduct inspections and monitoring activities to determine the full impact of the disaster.

In Sarangani and Davao Occidental, officials reported damage to several public structures, including municipal buildings and port facilities. In Glan, Sarangani, local reports and photographs showed cracked roads and areas possibly affected by landslides following the strong tremor.

Authorities said structural assessments remain ongoing, with some inspections in General Santos City delayed by continuing aftershocks.

As damage assessment teams continue their work, residents are advised to remain cautious, avoid visibly damaged structures, and monitor official advisories for updates on safety conditions, restoration efforts, and possible aftershocks.