Phivolcs Issues Tsunami Warning After Magnitude 7.8 Earthquake Strikes Off Sarangani

State seismologists on Monday issued a tsunami warning for several provinces in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago after a strong magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Sarangani province early in the morning.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. and had a depth of 10 kilometers. The offshore quake generated concerns over possible tsunami waves that could affect nearby coastal communities.

Following the earthquake, Phivolcs released a tsunami advisory, warning residents in vulnerable coastal areas to remain alert and take precautionary measures. The agency said tsunami waves were expected to arrive between 7:37 a.m. and 9:37 a.m., depending on the location and distance from the earthquake’s epicenter.

Authorities urged residents living along coastlines to immediately monitor official advisories and follow instructions from local disaster management offices. Coastal communities were advised to move away from beaches and shorelines and proceed to higher ground if instructed by local officials.

Phivolcs identified several provinces that could be affected by tsunami activity following the earthquake. Areas placed under the tsunami warning included Sarangani, Davao Occidental, Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sultan Kudarat, and South Cotabato.

The agency said coastal residents should remain vigilant for signs of a locally generated tsunami, particularly after experiencing strong ground shaking. Phivolcs reiterated the importance of recognizing natural warning signs that may indicate an approaching tsunami.

“Always be prepared for earthquakes and do the DUCK, COVER, and HOLD,” the advisory stated.

The agency also reminded coastal residents to watch for the warning signs of a local tsunami, including “SHAKE or strong earthquake,” “DROP or sudden change in sea level,” and “ROAR or strange sound like the roar of an approaching wave.”

Strong earthquakes occurring offshore can displace large volumes of seawater, potentially generating tsunami waves that can reach nearby coastlines within minutes. Because of the limited time available for evacuation during local tsunami events, authorities emphasize the importance of immediately responding to natural warning signs even before official alerts are received.

Initial reports indicated that the earthquake was felt across parts of southern Mindanao, including General Santos City. Some social media posts and local reports described the tremor as particularly strong in the area, prompting residents to evacuate buildings and move to open spaces as a precaution.

Emergency response agencies and local government units closely monitored the situation throughout the morning, assessing possible impacts from both the earthquake and any tsunami activity. Authorities also reminded the public to prepare for possible aftershocks, which commonly occur following major earthquakes.

Seismologists noted that aftershocks can continue for hours, days, or even weeks after a significant seismic event. Residents in affected areas were advised to remain cautious, inspect their homes and buildings for damage, and stay updated through official government channels.

As of Monday morning, authorities continued to monitor sea-level conditions and gather additional information regarding the earthquake’s impact. Phivolcs said further updates would be issued as more data became available.

Officials urged the public not to spread unverified information and to rely on advisories issued by Phivolcs, local government units, and disaster management agencies.

“Keep safe and remember there will still be aftershocks,” the advisory reminded residents as authorities continued to assess conditions in affected areas.