Death toll from earthquake in southern Philippines rises to 45

The death toll from a powerful earthquake that struck the southern Philippines has risen to 45, according to the country's Office of Civil Defense. The agency reported that 630 people were injured, while 17 remain missing. The earthquake struck off the southern coast of Mindanao Island on Monday morning, causing widespread damage.

Local authorities reported damage to 2,500 homes, of which 460 were completely destroyed. A state of emergency has been declared in the city of General Santos. More than 145,000 residents of the Philippine region have been affected by the disaster.

According to ABS-CBN News, the earthquake prompted evacuations and rescue operations. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as aftershocks continue to rattle the region. The Philippine government has mobilized resources for relief and recovery efforts.

The earthquake is one of the deadliest to hit the region in recent years. The Philippines is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. According to Mehr News Agency, the disaster has underscored the vulnerability of communities in the region to natural calamities.