DIGOS, Philippines — A magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao on Tuesday, sending terrified schoolchildren into the streets as an outdoor structure collapsed at a local school. Eyewitnesses reported screams and panic as pupils rushed outside, but the school later confirmed no injuries occurred, crediting staff for maintaining calm during the chaos.

At least 32 people have died across the region, according to preliminary reports from local authorities. The national disaster agency has yet to verify the total death toll, as reports continue to stream in from affected communities. Rescue teams are already on the ground, assessing damage to homes and infrastructure.

More than 130 aftershocks have been recorded, with magnitudes ranging from 1.3 to 6.7, creating a prolonged sense of unease among residents. The strongest aftershock, a 6.7 tremor, struck just 23 minutes after the initial quake, compounding fears of further collapses.

In Davao City, one of the hardest-hit areas, power outages and communication disruptions have complicated rescue efforts. Authorities have urged residents to avoid coastal regions due to fears of a possible tsunami, though no wave has yet been reported.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a tsunami advisory shortly after the quake, warning of potential sea level changes. Fishermen along the coast were advised to move to higher ground as a precaution, though the alert was later downgraded.

Rescue operations are expected to continue for days, with international aid agencies on standby to assist local authorities. The government has declared a state of calamity in the worst-affected regions, paving the way for rapid resource allocation.

Experts warn that aftershocks could persist for weeks, increasing the risk of landslides and structural failures. The Philippines sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a hotspot for seismic activity, making preparedness critical for communities in high-risk zones.