DBM: Funds ready for release after magnitude 7.8 Mindanao earthquake

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Monday assured the availability of quick response funds (QRFs) for concerned agencies to support disaster response efforts in Mindanao following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake.

The DBM said QRFs of all implementing agencies remain available and may be immediately utilized for disaster response and relief operations.

“For the Sarangani earthquake response, existing QRF resources remain available for immediate deployment by the concerned agencies, while the DBM remains prepared to provide the necessary budgetary support as requirements arise,” it said in a message to reporters.

“The Department of Budget and Management continues to closely coordinate with the concerned agencies and stands ready to process any request for QRF replenishment that may be submitted to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of assistance to affected communities,” it added.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) recorded the earthquake at 7:37 a.m. on Monday, June 8, initially at magnitude 7 with a depth of 10 kilometers. This was later upgraded to magnitude 7.8 at a depth of 33 kilometers.

Intensity VII was reported in General Santos City, while instrumental intensity VIII was recorded in Malapatan, Sarangani.

PHIVOLCS also raised a tsunami warning, saying coastal communities in affected areas may experience waves more than one meter above normal tide levels.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported at least three fatalities and four injured in Soccsksargen, with damage recorded in several structures across the region, including hospitals and schools.—MCG, GMA News