Philippines Earthquake Kills 37, Hits Millions of Students on First Day Back in School
A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the Philippines on the first day of the school year, killing dozens, injuring hundreds, and affecting over 77,000 people across Mindanao.
The Philippines, located along one of the world's most active earthquake zones, was rocked by a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake on 8 June 2026.
The quake struck off the coast of Sarangani Province in Mindanao at around 7:30 am local time, triggering building collapses, landslides, over 1,000 aftershocks, and tsunami warnings across the region.
The disaster gained special attention because it occurred on the very first day of the new school year.
Millions of students were in classrooms when the ground began shaking, with dramatic videos of school evacuations quickly spreading online.
A deadly landslide in Glan buried homes, while damaged roads, hospitals, businesses and power lines complicated rescue efforts.
By 9 June, authorities confirmed 37 deaths, 479 injuries, and 4 missing persons, with more than 77,000 people affected across Mindanao.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. launched emergency operations, suspended classes in affected areas, and opened evacuation centres for displaced families.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences and support to the people of the Philippines.
