ZAMBOANGA CITY — A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck offshore Sarangani early Monday morning, June 8, 2026, prompted the evacuation of approximately 255 families, or 1,010 individuals, from the coastal barangay of Aplaya in Manicahan. Residents were moved to the multi-purpose covered court of the village as a precaution against a potential tsunami.
Classes and Work Suspended
Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso issued an order suspending classes at all levels, as well as work in local and national government agencies, following the earthquake that rattled parts of Mindanao, including the city, at 7:37 a.m. However, Olaso emphasized that offices providing essential and frontline services must continue their normal operations to ensure public service delivery.
Seismic Details
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that Intensity IV was felt in Zamboanga City. The earthquake's epicenter was located 32 kilometers southwest of Maasim, Sarangani, with a tectonic origin and a depth of focus of 33 kilometers.
Structural Inspections Ordered
Mayor Olaso directed authorities to inspect the structural integrity of all buildings, including schools, offices, and other structures, to safeguard students and residents from potential aftershocks. Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils are tasked with coordinating with school authorities, traffic enforcers, and other agencies to ensure the safe passage of teachers and students returning home.
First Day of Classes Disrupted
The earthquake struck as approximately 248,000 students were attending the first day of classes for School Year 2026-2027, adding to the urgency of the safety measures.
Forced Evacuation in Coastal Areas
Dr. Elmeir Jade Apolinario, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, confirmed that forced evacuation was implemented in coastal villages, particularly along the east coast, due to their proximity to the earthquake's epicenter in Sarangani. Phivolcs issued a Tsunami Warning, strongly advising residents in Sarangani, Davao Occidental, Tawi-tawi, Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sultan Kudarat, and South Cotabato to immediately move to higher ground or farther inland.
As of 11:30 a.m., no injuries or accidents had been reported, but authorities continue to monitor sea levels for any signs of a tsunami.
