Manila: State-owned Land Bank of the Philippines announced the temporary closure of its branches in South Cotabato and Sarangani as a precautionary measure following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake.

According to Philippines News Agency, the branches affected in South Cotabato are Calumping, General Santos Highway, General Santos-Pioneer, and Koronadal Highway. These branches are currently undergoing safety assessments to ensure the welfare of both clients and employees. Similarly, the Alabel and Glan branches in Sarangani are also closed pending the completion of safety inspections.

LandBank has assured that all other branches nationwide remain operational. In the meantime, clients are encouraged to utilize the bank's digital platforms, including the LandBank mobile banking app and iAccess, for their banking needs. Customers are also advised that inter-branch transactions can be conducted at the nearest open branch.

The bank is urging the public to stay informed by monitoring its official channels for updates regarding the reopening of the affected branches.