Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the swift mobilization of government agencies in response to a significant earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani, causing tsunami warnings across several Mindanao coastal provinces. In a statement, Marcos indicated that the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) are actively coordinating response and monitoring operations in the impacted areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President has tasked the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) with pre-positioning relief supplies and ensuring that evacuation centers are prepared and operational for potential displacements. Additionally, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has been instructed to remain on standby for damage assessment and to clear roads, bridges, and other critical routes essential for rescue and relief efforts.
In a precautionary measure, Marcos has suspended classes at all levels in the affected areas across Mindanao until further notice, emphasizing the priority of student safety. He stated that the Department of Education (DepEd) would collaborate with local government units to implement the suspension effectively.
Marcos urged residents in tsunami warning zones to promptly move to higher ground and adhere to local authorities' instructions. He stressed the importance of personal safety over material possessions, urging, "To our kababayans in the affected provinces, please heed the tsunami warning. Move to higher ground now. Do not wait. Your life is more important than anything left behind."
The President also reassured the public of the national government's tight coordination with local chief executives and regional offices as the situation evolves. The earthquake, measuring a magnitude of 7.8, jolted Sarangani province at 7:37 a.m. on Monday. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported that the quake's epicenter was located 32 km west of Maasim town, at a depth of 33 km.
Reported intensities varied across regions, with General Santos City experiencing Intensity VII, while other areas such as Palimbang and Senator Ninoy Aquino in Sultan Kudarat felt Intensity VI. The earthquake's effects were recorded as far as Zamboanga del Norte and Southern Leyte, with varying intensities.
Instrumental intensities showed Malapatan, Sarangani experiencing Intensity VIII, and cities like Koronadal and Santa Maria feeling Intensity VII. The widespread impact underscores the urgent need for coordinated disaster response efforts across the affected regions.
