Rescuers in the southern Philippines are searching damaged buildings after a powerful earthquake struck the country on Monday, with officials reporting at least 37 deaths. Multiple outlets say the quake is among the strongest to hit the Philippines in decades or about half a century. On Tuesday, search efforts continue to check whether anyone remains trapped in ruined structures. Figures on displacement differ slightly by outlet: several reports cite roughly 20,000 people forced from their homes, while others put the number closer to 32,000. One source attributes the higher figure to an initial government damage assessment. The reports also note earthquake impacts beyond housing, including damage to government facilities. In addition, coverage places the event in context of the Philippines’ frequent seismic activity, describing the country’s location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic fault lines and volcanic activity contribute to regular earthquakes. Officials are still assessing damage and working to confirm casualties and the full extent of displacement.