Mindanao earthquake death toll reaches 65; 176,000 families affected — NDRRMC

The number of families affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Maasim, Sarangani has climbed to more than 176,000, while authorities have reported at least 65 deaths and over 1,400 injuries, according to the latest disaster report.

In Situational Report No. 7 issued Monday morning, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said a total of 176,186 families, or 736,386 individuals, have been affected by the June 8 earthquake, up from the more than 173,000 families previously reported.

Of the affected population, 3,180 families, or 14,161 individuals, were staying in 37 evacuation centres, while 14,687 families, or 59,013 persons, were taking shelter outside evacuation sites.

The NDRRMC said 65 deaths, 1,447 injuries and 36 missing persons have been reported, although the figures remain subject to validation.

The powerful earthquake also caused widespread damage across Mindanao, affecting 57,252 houses, including 10,023 that were totally destroyed.

A total of 135 road sections and 41 bridges were also affected. Of these, 26 roads and 13 bridges remained impassable as of the latest report.

Meanwhile, 39 cities and municipalities continued to experience power interruptions, while water supply services remained disrupted in 16 localities.

The earthquake struck Maasim, Sarangani at 7:37 a.m. on June 8. Tectonic in origin, it occurred at a depth of 33 kilometres and triggered a tsunami warning.

Sea-level monitoring stations later confirmed tsunami waves, including a 1.48-metre wave recorded in Kiamba, Sarangani.

Government agencies have continued relief and response operations, with more than P137 million worth of assistance provided to affected families.

An additional P8.1 million in aid has also been extended to local government units and regional agencies.

The NDRRMC said 14 cities and municipalities have been placed under a state of calamity due to the earthquake's impact.

Authorities continue to validate reports as response and recovery efforts remain underway.—MCG, GMA News