7.8 Magnitude Earthquake In Philippines Kills At Least 32 People

A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Monday, killing at least 32 people.

The quake heavily impacted the city of General Santos, where several buildings collapsed and many others suffered significant structural damage. Officials said it was the strongest earthquake to hit the country so far this year.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the earthquake was centered offshore near Mindanao, the nation's second-most populous island. It struck at a depth of about 33 kilometers (20 miles) and was located roughly 32 kilometers southwest of Maasim in Sarangani province.

Following the disaster, the United States said it was coordinating with Philippine authorities and stood ready to assist with response and recovery efforts. France and New Zealand also expressed support for the country.