Sarangani: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has mobilized air and sea transport resources to support ongoing rescue efforts in Glan, Sarangani. This move follows the devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake that hit southern Mindanao, creating an urgent need for clean water, medical aid, and relief supplies in the affected area.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DENR's deployment is being coordinated with the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) and is in collaboration with Apex Mining. In a social media update on Thursday, the DENR confirmed its role in facilitating search and rescue operations, delivering potable water, and transporting medical and relief personnel to the quake-stricken area.

The operation has become crucial as damaged road networks continue to impede access to affected communities, making air and sea transport essential for sustaining emergency activities. To support these efforts, helicopters are being utilized for priority missions, including search and rescue, medical evacuations, and delivery of essential supplies.

Personnel dispatched include a Search, Rescue, and Retrieval (SRR) team from Apex Mining, and an OCD Water and Sanitation Team. The DENR has emphasized its commitment to enhancing rescue capabilities through strategic partnerships.

An auxiliary vessel capable of carrying up to 100 tons has been assigned to logistical missions, focusing on the transport of relief goods, operational supplies, and emergency personnel. This vessel is also set to assist in reaching communities that remain accessible only by sea due to damaged infrastructure.

Glan, one of the most severely affected areas, experienced significant public infrastructure damage, including the collapse of a bridge that has isolated the town. According to the DENR's ground situation assessment, the Malapatan-Glan Highway, a critical access route, is expected to be operational in approximately one week, highlighting the pressing need for alternative transport support.