India, Oct. 10 -- A powerful earthquake measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale shook the southern Philippines on Friday, sending thousands fleeing into the streets and triggering widespread panic across Mindanao. Dramatic videos shared on social media showed terrified residents rushing out of buildings and scrambling for safety as the tremors rattled the region.

(Also read: As tremors jolt classroom, students hold on to each other in Philippines | Watch)

One widely circulated video captured the scene inside an office or restaurant, where boxes crashed to the floor, fluorescent lights swayed violently, and power flickered as employees hid under desks to shield themselves from falling debris.

HT.com couldn't independently verify the authenti...