At least 19 dead after 7.8 magnitude quake rocks southern Philippines

At least 19 people are dead and more than a hundred others injured, after a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Philippines — the strongest to hit the country this year. Some reports put the toll higher. The epicentre of the earthquake was 13km southwest of General Santos city on the island of Mindanao. Authorities have warned residents that buildings could collapse due to aftershocks. Search and rescue efforts are still underway, while hospitals and health centres have activated crisis protocols. Mariejo Ramos reports from Metro Manila.