Earthquake Kills at Least 35 in Philippines, Damages Schools and Infrastructure

A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines early Monday, collapsing schools, churches and other buildings on the first day of the new school year. The quake, the strongest recorded in the country this year, hit off the coast of Mindanao and generated landslides and tsunamis that added to the destruction.

Officials said at least 35 people were killed and hundreds injured as of Monday afternoon, with search efforts continuing in remote villages.

of Newfoundland and Labrador's

Filipino community said they were shocked by the damage shown in videos and expressed concern for relatives in affected areas. Community members stated they expect local fundraising efforts to begin soon. The province's Filipino population stood at 2,270 according to the 2021 census, with concentrations in the St.

John's area and parts of Labrador. Residents said natural disasters are common in the Philippines but remain difficult to witness from afar. "A lot of videos I've seen were, like, people calling out 'Lord! Lord! " Officials and community leaders said they anticipate continued support efforts as more information emerges from isolated areas.