MANILA: A powerful offshore earthquake struck near the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Monday, killing at least 15 people, injuring more than 130 others, and causing widespread damage across several provinces.

The quake, which was centered off the coast of Mindanao, sent strong tremors through major population centers, toppling buildings, damaging homes, and forcing residents to flee into the streets. Emergency officials said most deaths were caused by collapsing structures and falling debris.

Authorities launched search-and-rescue operations in affected areas as teams worked to locate several people reported missing. Hospitals across the region treated dozens of injured residents, while damage assessments continued in cities and towns hit by the quake.

The earthquake also triggered tsunami warnings across parts of the region, prompting coastal evacuations in the Philippines and neighboring countries. Officials later reported minor sea surges along some coastlines, but no major tsunami damage was immediately recorded.

In General Santos City and surrounding areas, authorities reported significant structural damage to commercial buildings, schools, and residential properties. Rescue workers continued clearing debris amid concerns that additional victims could be trapped beneath collapsed structures.

The tremor was followed by a series of strong aftershocks, including one measuring 6.5 magnitude, raising fears of further damage and complicating emergency operations.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the mobilization of national disaster-response agencies and pledged government support for relief and recovery efforts. Classes and government operations were suspended in several affected areas while engineers inspected public infrastructure.

The Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most seismically active regions, and experiences frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.