MINDANAO QUAKE CLAIMED 37 LIVES, HUNDREDS INJURED

The death toll from the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off Sarangani in Mindanao rose to 37 as of Tuesday, June 9, according to data released by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

The OCD reported 33 fatalities in Region 12 and four in Region 11. Most of the deaths were attributed to falling debris caused by the powerful earthquake, Civil Defense spokesperson Junie Castillo said.

Authorities also recorded 456 injured individuals and four persons reported missing in Region 12. Castillo noted that the number of missing persons remained subject to verification as reports continued to come in from affected communities.

The earthquake affected 77,186 individuals, or 17,689 families, across several areas in Mindanao, forcing thousands to seek temporary shelter amid continuing aftershocks.

Initial damage assessments showed that nine bridges collapsed and 19 roads were damaged in Region 12, with infrastructure losses estimated at approximately P900 million.

At least 1,889 houses sustained damage, including nearly 1,500 that were totally destroyed, according to OCD data.

Search, rescue, and retrieval operations continued in the hardest-hit areas, particularly in General Santos City and Sarangani Province, while relief efforts remained underway for displaced residents.

General Santos City was placed under a state of calamity on Monday to facilitate emergency response and recovery operations.

The OCD said it was also considering the establishment of a tent city to accommodate residents unable to return to their homes because of structural damage and persistent aftershocks.

Authorities said damage assessment, rescue operations, and relief distribution would continue as affected communities begin the long process of recovery.