The quake triggers evacuations and reports of extensive damage in commercial establishments across affected areas.
A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake in the Sarangani area disrupted the first day of classes in parts of Mindanao on Monday, forcing schools to suspend activities and triggering evacuations in offices, malls, restaurants, and other establishments.
At Mahayahay Elementary School in Davao Oriental, students and teachers were conducting their morning flag ceremony when the tremor struck. School officials said learners and personnel immediately followed earthquake safety protocols and evacuated to safer areas. No injuries were reported, but classes were suspended pending safety assessments.
The quake coincided with the opening of the school year, turning what was supposed to be the most-awaited return to classrooms into an emergency response exercise for many students.
In photos and videos that have surfaced online after the incident, extensive damage was seen in several commercial and public buildings, including a multi-storey structure where a Jollibee outlet on the ground floor was totally destroyed. Another clip showed a mall with cracked walls, fallen ceiling panels, broken glass, and other structural damage. Businesses, including malls and restaurants, temporarily halted operations while inspections were conducted.
DOST-PHIVOLCS also recorded an aftershock with a magnitude 6.7 near Balut Island, Davao Occidental.
Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage and have advised residents to remain alert for possible aftershocks.
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