Baguio city: The municipal government of Jose Abad Santos (JAS) in Davao Occidental has expressed gratitude to the Baguio City government for donating PHP600,000 in cash assistance to the municipality, which was severely affected by the recent 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Mindanao.

According to Philippines News Agency, Baguio City Administrator Vittorio Jerico Cawis formally turned over the check on July 4, which was received by Assistant Municipal Treasurer Alexander Espinosa. The JAS local government expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Baguio City government for its prompt response and solidarity in a public statement, emphasizing how the generosity has instilled hope and strength in the community as they work towards recovery.

As of July 5, the JAS Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported eight fatalities, 40 injured individuals, and 12 persons still missing. The disaster has affected 22,576 families, with 5,016 households currently staying in evacuation centers and temporary shelters.

Authorities have also recorded 2,648 houses destroyed and 4,052 partially damaged. The infrastructure losses include 39 schools with 405 classrooms, 16 barangay halls, eight gymnasiums, 13 health facilities, 18 other facilities, and 75 churches. This significant donation from Baguio City is expected to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts for the affected communities.