At least 15 people were killed and more than 130 others injured after a powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines, causing widespread damage and triggering tsunami warnings across parts of the region.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the tectonic earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. local time at a depth of 33 kilometers. The epicenter was located approximately 32 kilometers southwest of the coastal town of Maasim in Sarangani province on Mindanao Island.

Local media reported that at least 15 people lost their lives as a result of the disaster. Twelve fatalities were recorded in the Soccsksargen region of Mindanao, while three others were reported in Davao Occidental province.

The Philippine National Police said at least 134 people were injured, with rescue and emergency teams continuing assessment and response operations in affected areas.

Authorities reported damage to homes, public buildings and infrastructure in several communities across southern Mindanao, prompting concerns over the safety of residents returning to affected structures.

The Office of Civil Defense urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid entering damaged buildings due to the risk posed by aftershocks and possible structural collapse.

Initial seismic data released by PHIVOLCS placed the epicenter near General Santos City, while the U.S. Geological Survey measured the earthquake at a magnitude of 7.8.

Shortly after the quake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center warned that waves of up to three meters could affect parts of the Philippine coastline, while smaller waves were possible along sections of the coasts of Indonesia and Malaysia. In a later update, the center said the threat had largely subsided.

The Philippines is located along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a seismically active region where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur frequently due to tectonic plate movements.(ILKHA)