DOH raises alert status, issues safety advisories after magnitude 7.8 Mindanao earthquake

The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday activated its crisis protocol and issued public reminders following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck offshore Sarangani.

DOH spokesperson Undersecretary Albert Domingo said the agency will deploy its Health Emergency Response Teams based on operational requirements on the ground.

Meanwhile, World Health Organization–recognized Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Teams from Luzon and the Visayas have been placed on standby for possible deployment to establish field hospitals, if needed.

Domingo said the DOH has also ensured the safety of its personnel and is conducting a rapid assessment of the status of health facilities in affected areas.

“Pinapaalalahanan po ang lahat sa lugar na pinangyarihan na mag-ingat sa mga aftershock at dinggin ang umiiral na tsunami warning,” Domingo said.

(Residents in affected areas are reminded to be cautious of aftershocks and to follow the ongoing tsunami warning.)

A tsunami warning was raised following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck offshore Sarangani on Monday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

PHIVOLCS initially recorded the quake at magnitude 7.0 with a depth of 10 kilometers, later upgrading it to magnitude 7.8 at a depth of 33 kilometers.

In a " target="_blank">social media advisory, the DOH urged residents to immediately evacuate upon receiving a tsunami warning or when they observe the following natural signs:

• High-magnitude earthquake
• Rapid withdrawal of seawater from the shoreline
• Loud roaring sound resembling an approaching wave

The DOH also outlined safety measures during aftershocks:

• Apply first aid to the injured and seek medical attention when needed
• Inspect homes or buildings for cracks or structural damage, and check for gas leaks; switch off main power if necessary
• Avoid damaged structures, hanging electrical wires, landslide-prone areas, and shorelines
• Prepare essentials and a go bag in case evacuation is needed
• Stay alert for advisories from local authorities

The public may call the national emergency hotline 911 for assistance.

At least three people were reported dead and four others injured in Soccsksargen following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake, according to the Philippine National Police.

Police Regional Office 12 said all three fatalities and four injured individuals were civilians.

Authorities also recorded damage to 20 structures across the region, including 14 commercial establishments, two schools, two hospitals, and two residential houses.—MCG, GMA News