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BARMM Civil Servants Resume Work After Mindanao Tremor

Mindanao: Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM): Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua has ordered the resumption of government work in the region after structural experts declared all office buildings safe following Monday's Mindanao-wide tremor. 'All BARMM employees are also reminded to always remain vigilant and cautious,' he stated in a message addressed to all BARMM employees on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, on Monday morning, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the Soccsksargen Region, affecting two major provinces in BARMM - Maguindanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte - including its capital, Cotabato City. An Intensity V earthquake was felt in the city and the two provinces. In response, Macacua directed all concerned agencies to temporarily suspend office operations to allow for the immediate assessment of building safety and to ensure the welfare of all employees and the public.

On Monday night, Macacua reported receiving a briefing from the region's Ministry of Public Works (MPW) confirming that all structures inside the Bangsamoro government center (BGC) are intact and safe for occupancy. This assessment led to his decision to issue a back-to-work order. 'I likewise advise all personnel working at the BGC and other government offices to remain alert for possible aftershocks and strictly observe established safety protocols. For offices located outside the BGC, please follow the advisories issued by your respective local government units,' he added.

Aside from the two Maguindanao provinces, the BARMM encompasses the provinces of Lanao del Sur, the Special Geographic Area in Cotabato province, and the island provinces of Basilan and Tawi-Tawi. 'In times like these, it is important that we remain calm, vigilant, and prepared to respond to any potential danger as we continue to closely monitor the situation,' Macacua emphasized.