Pakistan, June 13 -- Rescuers in the southern Philippines battled rain and aftershocks as the death toll from a powerful earthquake rose to 55. The 7.8 magnitude quake struck off Mindanao earlier this week and caused widespread destruction. Authorities said dozens remain missing and hopes of survival are rapidly fading. The earthquake hit near General Santos on Monday and triggered tsunami warnings across the region, damaging infrastructure and cutting off several communities.

The tremor destroyed buildings, blocked roads, and triggered landslides that left key routes impassable. Emergency teams used helicopters to deliver food and water to isolated areas still without electricity. Officials said access remains limited in several hard-hi...