A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines early Monday morning, killing at least 19 people and injuring 134 others. Twelve people remain missing.
The quake hit at 7:37 a.m. local time, about 20 miles off the coast of Maasim in Sarangani province. It triggered tsunami warnings across the region, which were later lifted.
Over 138 aftershocks, some as strong as magnitude 6.7, have followed the initial tremor.
The earthquake struck on the first day of the school year, affecting more than 3.2 million learners across Mindanao. Classes have been suspended in over 6,200 schools pending safety inspections.
UNICEF expressed concern for children, noting injuries among students and damage to school buildings. The agency has emergency supplies ready.
Widespread damage has been reported to hospitals, homes, government buildings, and infrastructure. Power outages and damaged roads are hampering relief efforts.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered an immediate government response. The UN and humanitarian partners are mobilizing aid and conducting rapid assessments.