Senators call for building checks, aid after Mindanao earthquake

Several senators on Monday called on national agencies to immediately conduct emergency response operations, including search and rescue, structural integrity inspections, and psychosocial and livelihood assistance, following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao.

In a statement, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian called for an “all-hands-on-deck” response from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and local government units to speed up rescue and relief operations.

“The 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani Province is deeply concerning, particularly given initial reports of damaged structures, a tsunami warning, and disrupted utility services across Mindanao,” Gatchalian said.

“Many schools in the province are also affected, with classes having just opened today. I also urge the Department of Education to prioritize the safety of teachers and learners,” he added.

With the opening of classes coinciding with the quake, Gatchalian said structural integrity checks of school buildings and the provision of psychosocial support for students and teachers should also be prioritized.

Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said his office has been coordinating with disaster response agencies to assist in evacuation, relief, and emergency operations.

“Itinutulak din nating mabigyan ng intervention ang mga batang mag-aaral na na-trauma sa kanilang first day of school,” Pangilinan said.

(We are also pushing for interventions for students who were traumatized on their first day of school.)

Aside from psychosocial support, Senator Bong Go called for swift livelihood assistance for those who lost income due to the quake.

“Umaapela ako sa mga ahensya ng national government na maglatag ng mabilis na interventions para sa mga nawalan ng kabuhayan, lalo na ang mga ordinaryong manggagawa sa mga establisyemento na pansamantalang nagsara dahil sa pinsala,” Go said.

(I appeal to national government agencies to implement immediate interventions for those who lost their livelihood, especially workers in establishments temporarily closed due to damage.)

Go also said power restoration, road clearing, and other basic services should be prioritized.

Meanwhile, Senator Robin Padilla urged local government units and the public to intensify information dissemination and avoid spreading unverified reports.

“Sa ganitong mga pagkakataon, bawat minuto ay mahalaga. Ang mabilis na pagkalat ng tamang impormasyon ay makapagliligtas ng buhay,” Padilla said.

(During crises like this, every minute is crucial. The rapid spread of accurate information can save lives.)

Padilla added that the public should rely only on official advisories from PHIVOLCS, NDRRMC, LGUs, and other authorized agencies.

The senators extended prayers and sympathies to affected communities, particularly families who lost loved ones.—MCG, GMA News