June 8, 2026
MANILA – A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off Sarangani on Monday morning, damaging buildings, disrupting utility services across parts of Mindanao, and prompting the suspension of classes and government work in several areas on the opening day of the school year.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the tectonic earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. on June 8. Its epicenter was located 32 kilometers south 4 degrees west of Maasim, Sarangani, at a depth of 33 kilometers.
The strong tremor, which lasted about 30 seconds in Koronadal City, disrupted internet, electricity, and water services in parts of the city and nearby areas.
Students and teachers rushed out of classrooms as school officials activated emergency protocols.
Cotabato City Mayor Bruce Matabalao ordered the suspension of classes at all levels, while Kidapawan City suspended both classes and government work as authorities assessed possible damage.
At Cotabato City Central Pilot Elementary School and other schools in the city, students were evacuated from classrooms as a precautionary measure.
Parents also rushed to Kidapawan City Pilot Elementary School after the tremor struck the city at around 7:40 a.m., raising concerns for their children’s safety.
In General Santos City, portions of SM City mall reportedly sustained damage. Initial reports also indicated that some buildings in the city were damaged by the quake.
Phivolcs reported Intensity VII in General Santos City; Intensity VI in Palimbang and Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat; and Intensity V in Davao City, Kidapawan City, Carmen in Cotabato, Bagumbayan, Kalamansig, and President Quirino in Sultan Kudarat, as well as Sibuco and Siocon in Zamboanga del Norte.
Instrumental Intensity VIII was recorded in Malapatan, Sarangani. Instrumental Intensity VII was recorded in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, and Santa Maria, Davao Occidental.
Phivolcs said damage and aftershocks were expected. An aftershock was recorded at 7:49 a.m. and was felt in nearby areas.
Authorities continued assessing the extent of damage and service disruptions. No casualties were immediately reported as of posting time.