Makati: Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III on Monday called for vigilance, unity and immediate action following the powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani province, triggering tsunami warnings and shaking large parts of Mindanao.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dy expressed concern for communities in the affected areas, urging residents, particularly those living along coastlines identified by authorities, to strictly follow evacuation orders and advisories from government agencies.
"Our foremost concern at this time is the safety and well-being of our fellow Filipinos in Mindanao. I urge everyone, especially those in coastal and low-lying communities, to heed the warnings and instructions of authorities. Please evacuate immediately when directed and prioritize your safety and that of your families," he said.
Dy also called on local government units (LGUs), disaster response agencies, uniformed personnel, volunteers, and community leaders "to work closely together" to ensure the orderly evacuation of residents and the swift delivery of assistance where needed.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) warned that tsunami waves of more than one meter above normal tide levels may affect several coastal provinces, including Sarangani, Davao Occidental, Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Sultan Kudarat, and South Cotabato.
Authorities also warned of possible damage and strong aftershocks following the earthquake.
Meanwhile, Dy welcomed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s immediate directive for all concerned government agencies to mobilize and respond to the situation.
"We are grateful that President Marcos has already directed all relevant government agencies to act immediately. This whole-of-government approach is crucial in ensuring that rescue, relief, and response operations are carried out quickly and effectively," he said.
Dy assured affected communities that the House of Representatives stands ready to support emergency response and recovery efforts, including any measures needed to assist families, local governments, and sectors that may be affected by the disaster.
"The House of Representatives stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Mindanao. We are prepared to support all necessary efforts to help affected communities recover and rebuild," he said.
Dy also urged the public to remain calm, stay alert for official advisories, and avoid spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic.
