MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed government agencies to immediately activate emergency response measures following a powerful earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani and prompted tsunami warnings in several parts of Mindanao.
In a statement, Marcos said the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) have been tasked to oversee monitoring and response operations in areas affected by the earthquake and its aftermath.
The President also instructed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to ensure the availability of relief supplies and prepare evacuation facilities for residents who may need to leave their homes.
Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) was ordered to prepare for rapid damage assessments and the clearing of roads, bridges, and other vital infrastructure that could be affected by the disaster.
As a precautionary measure, Marcos announced the suspension of classes at all levels in affected parts of Mindanao until further notice.
“The safety of our children comes first,” the President said.
He added that the Department of Education (DepEd) would work closely with local government units in implementing the class suspensions and monitoring conditions on the ground.
Marcos also appealed to residents in coastal communities covered by tsunami warnings to immediately follow evacuation orders and move to safer areas.
“To our kababayans in the affected provinces, please heed the tsunami warning. Move to higher ground now. Do not wait. Your life is more important than anything left behind,” he said.
The President assured the public that national agencies are coordinating with local officials and regional disaster response teams to address any emergencies resulting from the earthquake.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the magnitude 7.8 earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. and was located about 32 kilometers west of Maasim, Sarangani. The quake had a depth of 33 kilometers.
Based on latest report, there are eight casualties from the said quake.
Authorities continue to assess the impact of the earthquake, while residents have been advised to remain alert for possible aftershocks and comply with instructions from disaster management officials./PN
