At least 32 people have been killed after a powerful earthquake struck the southern Philippines, causing widespread damage, school closures, and transport disruptions across several provinces.

Local authorities said the 7.8-magnitude quake hit Sarangani province in southern Mindanao early Monday morning, leaving buildings damaged, infrastructure disrupted and thousands affected. Schools and flights were suspended as emergency response operations were launched across the region.

Officials reported that several countries initially issued tsunami warnings following the quake, although these alerts were later lifted after no significant wave activity was observed.

A spokesperson for the Philippine Office of Civil Defense said at least 10 deaths were recorded in General Santos City, a major port area in South Cotabato province with a population of more than 700,000. Authorities also confirmed that at least 12 people remain missing.

The fatalities were caused by collapsing structures, falling debris and landslides triggered by the powerful tremor, according to early assessments.

In General Santos, a two-storey school building collapsed while students were inside, prompting emergency rescue operations. Officials said investigations into the incident were ongoing.

Videos circulating online showed collapsed university and commercial buildings in several affected areas, while other structures suffered significant structural damage, including broken windows and fallen signage. Residents were seen evacuating buildings and gathering in open spaces for safety.

The earthquake struck shortly after schools across the Philippines reopened following the summer break. Security camera footage showed intense shaking inside classrooms, prompting teachers and students to evacuate or take shelter under desks.

The Department of Education ordered the suspension of classes in more than 5,800 schools to ensure student safety in affected areas.

General Santos International Airport temporarily suspended operations for safety inspections, while several domestic flights were cancelled. Aviation authorities said limited operations would continue for government, military and humanitarian flights while assessments were ongoing.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology confirmed that the earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. local time at a depth of 33 kilometres near Mindanao waters.

Authorities in the Philippines, Indonesia and Japan had initially issued tsunami warnings, but all alerts were later cancelled.(ILKHA)