Davao: The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) on Friday issued reminders on safeguarding heritage sites affected by a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck off Davao Oriental in the morning. The agency stressed that individual safety must take precedence over heritage preservation.

According to Philippines News Agency, the NHCP expressed solidarity with affected communities and emphasized that responders and individuals should prioritize their safety. The commission urged caretakers of historic objects to avoid entering damaged structures without proper coordination with local authorities and assurance of safety.

The NHCP advised heritage site administrators and community custodians to secure premises, assess structural stability, document damage, and handle artifacts with care. It provided guidelines for safely retrieving and storing damaged cultural artifacts, emphasizing the importance of consulting professionals for restoration efforts.

Additionally, the NHCP warned against sharing photos of damaged heritage sites online due to potential misuse. It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local efforts in preserving cultural heritage and stands ready to offer technical guidance to affected communities.