Mindanao: An earthquake measuring 7.8 magnitude on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Mindanao island in the southern Philippines on Monday. The seismic event has prompted an urgent response from local authorities and international agencies.

According to Qatar News Agency, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the region experienced strong aftershocks about two hours after the initial earthquake. The most significant aftershock measured 6.5 magnitude, leading to the issuance of tsunami warnings in several countries neighboring the Philippines. These warnings have heightened concerns about potential threats to coastal areas.

Philippine authorities have urged residents of affected coastal regions to move to higher ground immediately. Initial reports indicate that the earthquake resulted in dozens of casualties, with both fatalities and injuries being reported. The disaster comes as a severe blow to the nation, which is still recovering from previous seismic events.

Eight months prior, the Philippines endured its deadliest earthquake in 12 years, when a magnitude 6.9 shallow quake struck off Cebu Island, resulting in 79 deaths. This event was followed two weeks later by two powerful tremors in Mindanao, with the strongest reaching a magnitude 7.4. The recurrence of such powerful earthquakes highlights the ongoing seismic challenges faced by the region.