Siargao: Local government units (LGUs) in the Caraga Region suspended classes and work in public and private offices after a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck off General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, on Friday morning.
According to Philippines News Agency, the executive orders (EOs) issued by local chief executives aim to ensure the safety of school children and residents in their respective communities, citing the need to evaluate government infrastructure due to the strong tremor. In coastal areas, inter-island trips, port and beach activities were also suspended temporarily by local chief executives.
In a Facebook post, the General Luna LGU announced that it will suspend classes at all levels until further notice, as well as restrictions on inter-island travel, port operations, and sea-related activities. The order will also activate the town's emergency response units.
Other LGUs in Surigao del Norte, particularly Del Carmen, Dapa, and Claver, also issued their respective EOs for class and work suspensions. Surigao del Norte Governor Robert Lyndon Barbers said the provincial government issued an advisory for the localized suspension of classes in the province. 'Our local chief executives are authorized to assess the situation in their localities and declare class suspensions, if necessary,' Barbers said.
In San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, Mayor Michael Corilla issued EO No. 66 to temporarily suspend classes at all levels and close public and private offices. The EO was issued immediately after the tremor to ensure the safety of local residents. Carrascal town also issued a separate EO in the same province suspending classes at all levels. In Agusan del Sur, Governor Santiago Cane Jr. also announced the suspension of classes at all levels in public and private schools, stating that an EO will follow after his announcement.
Meanwhile, offices at the city government of Surigao remain operational to accommodate the public and ensure the continued delivery of basic services despite the strong earthquake. Surigao City experienced Intensity IV in actual shaking during the earthquake. 'The city government is coordinating with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology for any updates and advisories,' the Surigao City Public Information Office said in a statement on Friday. It also reminded the residents in the city to stay calm, stay alert, and follow only official information from authorized government sources.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Caraga Region (DSWD-13) has activated its Quick Response Team, ready to serve and respond immediately to the needs of affected communities. 'The DSWD-13 assures everyone that it remains committed to providing the necessary support and assistance during this time,' the agency said. As of press time, assessments are still underway in some infrastructures in the region following the strong temblor.
