A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit the southern Philippines on Monday, resulting in 35 fatalities and over 200 injuries. The quake's epicenter was located at sea off Mindanao, with a depth of 33 kilometers. Most casualties were attributed to building collapses, particularly in General Santos, where 13 deaths were reported, and in Glan, where landslides claimed 18 lives. The earthquake caused significant damage, affecting around 2,500 homes and 117 government buildings. As schools reopened after summer break, nearly 6,000 public school buildings were impacted, necessitating safety evaluations before classes can resume. Rescue efforts are complicated by ongoing aftershocks and difficult access to some areas. Neighboring countries, including Malaysia and Indonesia, also experienced minor tsunami waves, but no significant damage was reported. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. dispatched officials to lead rescue operations and coordinate aid, with international support from the United States, New Zealand, Japan, and France.