Cebu: The government is conducting an assessment of infrastructure in Cebu after the province was struck by a 6.9 magnitude earthquake on Tuesday. Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vicencio Dizon stated that President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has tasked him and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian to evaluate the situation in earthquake-hit areas, focusing on Bogo City, the epicenter of the tremor.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dizon emphasized the importance of beginning with the most immediate needs, such as relief distribution and road clearing. He mentioned that they have received reports of cracked roads and stressed the necessity of ensuring road passability to facilitate the entry of goods and relief. The DPWH chief highlighted the importance of a quick assessment followed by immediate action to address the infrastructure challenges.

Prior to this, Dizon was in Masbate with the President to evaluate the impact of Severe Tropical Storm Opong, internationally known as Bualoi, which had caused significant damage in the province the previous week. He noted that the President had directed the agency to identify and address the urgent needs of residents affected by the storm.

Immediate actions include the cleaning and repair of damaged roads and bridges to ensure the swift delivery of assistance from agencies like the DSWD. Dizon also mentioned that the DPWH’s Quick Response Team was promptly deployed to clear debris in cyclone-affected areas.