Mindanao Earthquake Kills 35, Triggers Tsunami Alerts

The quake hit at 07:37 local time on Monday. It triggered tsunami alerts in four countries. These included the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, and Australia. However, the warnings were cancelled or downgraded hours later.Videos and images showed buildings collapsing. One clip captured a Jollibee fast food restaurant reduced to rubble. Landslides have also been recorded in some areas.

The Death Toll Rises

In an update on Monday afternoon, the Office of Civil Defense gave new numbers. Thirty-one fatalities were recorded in Soccsksargen. The other four were in Davao. Therefore, the total death toll reached 35.Officials added that at least 134 people have been injured. Some 10,000 families have been displaced. Authorities had earlier reported 32 deaths and 12 missing.

About Mindanao

Mindanao is the Philippines’ second-biggest island. It ranks both in size and population. Around 26 million people call it home. Rescue efforts are continuing in the affected areas.