Davao: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has placed all its personnel and assets within the area affected by the magnitude 7.4 earthquake in Davao Oriental on alert status to ensure immediate action and support to local government units.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) under the leadership of Commodore Philipps Soria, has activated its Deployable Response Group (DRG) teams. 'Immediately, CGDSEM directed all stations and sub-stations, particularly those within Davao Oriental, to coordinate with their respective Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) and check in their DRG units for readiness and possible deployment,' the statement read.

It said the activation aims 'to ensure a swift and coordinated response in conducting damage assessment, search and rescue operations, and assistance to affected communities should the need arise.' The CGDSEM also continues to monitor the situation closely in coordination with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and the Regional DRRMC.

It also suspended all ships/water transiting within its area of responsibility 'until further notice.' The PCG advised the public to remain calm, stay updated through official government advisories, and avoid spreading unverified information.