On the morning of June 8, 2026, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the coast near General Santos City, sending strong tremors across Mindanao and parts of the Visayas. The earthquake damaged homes, schools, and public infrastructure, disrupted electricity and communication services, and left many families uncertain about the days ahead.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the earthquake occurred at 7:37 AM, with an epicenter approximately 13 kilometers south of General Santos City. Aftershocks continued in the following days, forcing many residents to remain outside their homes or seek temporary shelter.
Children Among the Most Affected
Children have been among those most affected by the disaster. Local government units suspended classes in several areas while schools underwent safety inspections, disrupting children’s education and daily routines in General Santos City and surrounding areas.
Beyond interrupted learning, many children experienced fear and anxiety as they witnessed the earthquake and its aftermath. Helping children regain a sense of safety, stability, and hope is therefore a critical priority in the emergency response.
ChildFund Japan Conducts Field Assessment
In the days following the earthquake, ChildFund Japan dispatched staff members to the affected areas to conduct field assessments and validate the needs of communities identified as priorities for assistance.
The assessment confirmed damage to homes, schools, and community infrastructure, as well as temporary disruptions to essential services. Families expressed urgent needs for psychosocial support for children, food assistance, and essential household items to help them cope with the crisis.
Based on these findings, ChildFund Japan is launching an emergency response to support affected children and families. The response includes psychosocial support activities to help children recover emotionally, as well as the distribution of food and essential non-food items, including hygiene and infant kits.
Looking Ahead
Recovery is about more than rebuilding structures. It is about helping children feel safe again, return to learning, and regain hope for the future.
ChildFund Japan remains committed to standing alongside children, families, and communities affected by the Mindanao earthquake as they recover and rebuild their lives.
