Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed government agencies to maintain ongoing relief and recovery initiatives in Mindanao following the devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off Sarangani. The President emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of patients in hospitals damaged by the quake.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a situation briefing held in Malaca±ang, President Marcos instructed the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to promptly evaluate hospitals affected by the earthquake and to identify secure locations for the relocation of patients.
Claire Castro, the Palace Press Officer, stated that the President also tasked the Department of Energy (DOE) with prioritizing the restoration and stability of power supply in medical facilities. 'Ayon sa Pangulo, higit na nangangailangan ng agarang atensiyon ang mga pasyente sa mga lugar na niyanig ng malakas na lindol' (According to the President, patients in areas shaken by the strong earthquake require urgent attention), Castro said.
In a virtual meeting with General Santos City Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao, President Marcos was briefed on the needs of affected communities. Castro confirmed that the President assured local officials of the national government's commitment to provide all necessary assistance to the disaster-stricken areas.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported that relief operations are underway, with support from the Philippine Air Force and Philippine Coast Guard to deliver aid to isolated communities affected by landslides and damaged roads. Castro mentioned that displaced residents are temporarily housed in evacuation centers and tents provided by the government.
Castro emphasized, 'So, hindi po ito pababayaan at nag-ulat din po ang DSWD na kahit iyong mga malalayong lugar at iyong mga lugar na hindi naaabot ng mga sasakyan ay nagawan nila ng paraan para maabot ang mga kababayan natin' (They will not be neglected, and the DSWD reported that even remote areas and places inaccessible to vehicles are being reached through alternative means).
The President is planning to visit the quake-hit areas, although no date has been scheduled yet, according to Castro. The DOH has distributed medical assistance to the victims, and the Department of Education is working with local governments to ensure student safety.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology reported stable connectivity in the affected areas, and the DOE confirmed that electricity has been restored in many parts of Mindanao.
Before concluding the briefing, President Marcos commended the government agencies for their prompt response but urged them to stay focused on assisting victims and preparing for further contingencies, as reported by Castro.
As of Tuesday morning, the Office of Civil Defense reported 37 deaths linked to the earthquake and recorded more than 1,000 aftershocks.
