Manila: The House of Representatives on Wednesday called on its members to 'collectively and individually rise up to meet the challenges of relief and rehabilitation in the earthquake-stricken areas for the purpose of providing any form of assistance to the earthquake victims,' as it adopted a resolution expressing solidarity with communities devastated by the recent tremor in Southern Mindanao.
According to Philippines News Agency, the lower chamber approved House Resolution 113, introduced by Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III, House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander 'Sandro' Marcos, and Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan during the special session of Congress called by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The measure expresses the House's 'deepest sympathy, heartfelt concern, and unyielding support' for the victims of the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck General Santos City, Sarangani province, and other parts of Southern Mindanao on June 8.
The resolution noted that the disaster has claimed at least 68 lives, left 33 persons missing, injured hundreds more, and adversely affected thousands of families. It also cited the widespread destruction caused by the tremor, including the collapse of buildings and commercial establishments, and damage to public facilities and educational institutions, which disrupted classes and essential government services.
Lawmakers recognized the profound suffering experienced by affected communities, with many families left bereaved, injured, displaced, and in urgent need of humanitarian assistance and long-term recovery support.
'As the elected voice of the Filipino people, the House of Representatives recognizes its solemn duty to stand in solidarity with the victims of this tragic disaster, to extend compassion and empathy, and to affirm its unwavering commitment to support relief, rehabilitation, and resilience-building efforts,' the resolution read.
It also acknowledged the swift response of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who directed government agencies to immediately coordinate disaster response efforts across affected areas.
The measure specifically cited the President's directive for the Department of Social Welfare and Development to pre-position relief goods and ensure evacuation centers are ready and operational, as well as instructions to the Department of Public Works and Highways to assess damage to roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure and clear routes needed for rescue and relief operations.
The resolution likewise recognized the visit of House leaders, led by Dy, to General Santos City and Sarangani, where they personally assessed conditions on the ground and extended assistance to affected residents.
It further underscored that 'the spirit of bayanihan and collective resolve must guide the nation in confronting the aftermath of this calamity, ensuring that no community is left behind in the path toward healing and recovery.'
The resolution affirmed the House's commitment to support ongoing relief, rehabilitation, and recovery efforts as affected communities work to rebuild and recover from one of the most devastating earthquakes to hit Southern Mindanao in recent years.
