Manila: The Philippines’ seismology agency, Phivolcs, has lifted the tsunami alert for southern provinces following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake, stating that the risk has now subsided.In an advisory, Phivolcs said that after an extended two-hour observation period, only minor sea level disturbances were detected. The agency noted that these wave heights were too small to cause damage.The update comes as authorities confirmed that at least 15 people were killed and 129 injured in the powerful earthquake, according to the Philippine Office of Civil Defence.An abandoned building that collapsed after an earthquake struck in Matanao, Davao del Sur province, Philippines on Monday June 8, 2026. AP This image from a video shows dust and debris outside a building after a powerful earthquake in General Santos city on the island of Mindanao, Philippines Monday, June 8, 2026. AP Vehicles damaged by debris after powerful earthquake in the Mindanao region, Philippines Monday, June 8, 2026. AP Local Civil Defence Office Director Rodrigo Sosmeña said that 12 of the fatalities were reported in the Soccsksargen region, which includes South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City.He added that at least 129 people sustained injuries in the affected areas.Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and monitor the situation following the quake.Compiled from agencies

Dubai: The Dubai Government Human Resources Department announced that Monday, June 15, 2026, will be an official holiday for Dubai Government authorities, departments and institutions on the occasion of the Islamic New Year 1448 AH, with official working hours resuming on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.This excludes entities that have employees working on a shift system, or whose jobs are related to serving the public or managing public facilities and services, as these entities are responsible for determining the working hours for these categories in accordance with their operational requirements, and in a way that ensures the continuity of services and the efficiency of operations during the holiday period.On this occasion, the Dubai Government Human Resources Department extends its warmest congratulations and blessings to the wise leadership, the government and people of the United Arab Emirates, and to the residents on its land, praying to God Almighty that the new Hijri year will be a year full of goodness, prosperity and blessings, and that He will perpetuate the blessing of security and stability on the UAE.