Philippines quake kills at least 55, leaves 31 missing

A magnitude‑7.8 earthquake struck the offshore waters near Mindanao Island in the Philippines on Monday, collapsing numerous buildings and triggering landslides. The latest official count puts the death toll at 55, up from 46 previously reported, with 31 people still missing.

Rescue teams are clearing roads, removing rubble and searching wrecked structures despite heavy rain and ongoing aftershocks. Helicopters are being used to deliver food and water to isolated communities that remain without electricity. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited the hardest‑hit area, including General Santos City, inspected a damaged school and an aid distribution centre, and announced a pledge of 100 million pesos (about €1.4 million) for rebuilding the town hall.