The 7.8 magnitude quake had a depth of 10km, says the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology
But initial estimates from other agencies vary - it was 7.8 magnitude and 50km deep says the German Research Centre for Geosciences, while the US Geological Survey says it was 7.8 magnitude and 35km deep.
High school and university buildings were among the structures reported to have suffered damage as the strong tremor shook parts of the country.
According to viral videos shared online, several buildings were seen crumbling into rubble as the ground shook violently. In one clip filmed outside a school campus, students were seen gathered in an open ground area as a precautionary measure as the building collapsed.
Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr says he has "directed all relevant government agencies to act immediately", urging people to move to higher ground
The quake struck off the coast of General Santos City, located on Mindanao, the Philippines' main southern island
