GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — A powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck near General Santos City early Monday morning, June 8, 2026, causing strong ground shaking across several provinces in Mindanao and parts of the Visayas, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
The earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. and was traced to a depth of 10 kilometers, with its epicenter located approximately 13 kilometers south of General Santos City.
PHIVOLCS reported Intensity VII in General Santos City, indicating very strong and destructive shaking. Residents experienced violent ground movement that prompted evacuations from homes, offices, and commercial establishments.
Other areas that recorded significant shaking included Palimbang and Senator Ninoy Aquino in Sultan Kudarat, which registered Intensity VI, while Davao City, Kidapawan City, Carmen in Cotabato, and several municipalities in Sultan Kudarat and Zamboanga del Norte experienced Intensity V.
Moderate to light shaking was also felt in various parts of Davao Oriental, Zamboanga Sibugay, Surigao del Norte, Leyte, Southern Leyte, and neighboring provinces.
Instrumental intensity measurements showed Intensity VII in Koronadal City and Santa Maria, Davao Occidental, while Davao City registered Intensity V.
Authorities immediately began assessing the extent of damage to infrastructure and possible casualties in affected areas. Emergency response teams and local disaster risk reduction offices were placed on alert as officials monitored the situation.
PHIVOLCS reminded the public to remain vigilant for possible aftershocks and to follow safety advisories issued by local authorities. Residents were also advised to inspect their homes and workplaces for structural damage and avoid entering compromised buildings until they are declared safe.
As of this writing, no official reports of casualties or major damage have been released. Authorities continue to gather information from affected communities.
PHIVOLCS is expected to issue additional earthquake information and updates as assessments continue. (PHIVOLCS-DOST)