Manila: Members of the Senate majority may proceed to areas affected by Monday morning's magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Mindanao. Senator Erwin Tulfo, chairperson of the Blue Ribbon Committee, said he had spoken with Senate President Pro Tempore and Acting Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian regarding a possible visit following initial reports of damage in parts of Mindanao.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tulfo announced in an interview that he had discussed with the Acting Senate President the potential visit by majority bloc members to assess the needs of the earthquake victims. In respect for those affected, Tulfo suspended the Blue Ribbon Committee's organizational meeting.
Gatchalian emphasized that the government's immediate priority should be saving lives, especially with reports of damaged structures, disrupted utility services, and a tsunami warning. He urged the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and local government units to swiftly conduct search, rescue, and relief operations.
He also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of teachers and learners as schools reopened. Gatchalian called for an immediate assessment of school buildings for structural integrity, along with the provision of psychosocial support and localized measures to ensure learning continuity.
Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, through a social media post, encouraged prayers and national unity to aid affected communities, expressing solidarity with those impacted by the disaster.
Senator JV Ejercito highlighted the strong impact of the earthquake on senators, which led to the suspension of the Blue Ribbon hearing. He noted that the senators were eager to determine how they could assist their fellow citizens in the affected areas.
Senator Lito Lapid expressed sympathy for residents affected by the earthquake in regions including South Cotabato, Sarangani, General Santos City, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Davao Region, urging prayers for the safety of those impacted.
