Authorities in the Philippines are verifying reports that at least five people may have died following a powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck parts of the country, according to local disaster management officials.
Agripino Dacera, the disaster management chief for General Santos City in the southern Philippines, said preliminary reports indicate that at least five fatalities may have occurred as a result of the earthquake. However, he stressed that the information is still being verified as emergency response teams continue their assessments.
"The fatalities are still being verified," Dacera said, noting that authorities are working to determine the full extent of the damage caused by the powerful tremor.
Emergency personnel have been deployed across affected areas to conduct search and rescue operations, assess structural damage, and provide assistance to impacted communities.
The magnitude 7.8 earthquake triggered widespread concern across the region, with residents reporting strong shaking and authorities closely monitoring the situation for potential aftershocks and additional hazards.
Officials have not yet released comprehensive figures regarding injuries, property damage, or the number of people displaced by the disaster.
As assessments continue, local and national authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories while emergency teams gather more information from affected communities.
Further updates are expected as disaster management officials complete their verification process and compile detailed reports on the impact of the earthquake.