The Municipal Health Office of Glan, Sarangani has clarified that there is no surge in diarrhea cases in the aftermath of the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck the province on June 8, 2026.
According to the Provincial Information Office (PIO), municipal health officer, Dr. Jose Rigel Santos, said the Rural Health Center has logged only five diarrhea cases, while the Sarangani Provincial Hospital in Glan recorded only three.
Santos clarified that the cases recorded do not indicate an “outbreak” nor an unusual surge in cases.
PIO said the unverified reports surfaced amid a water shortage in the town after local refilling stations temporarily ceased operations for nearly a week due to earthquake-related damage.
The town also experienced a power outage after several power lines were affected by the tremor.
Santos assured residents that all water distributed for drinking undergoes safety screening before being released to the public.
"We do not allow the distribution of water if it has not passed safety testing," Santos was quoted as saying.
He explained that water that fails testing is designated only for domestic use, while filtered water approved for drinking is treated with purification tablets before distribution.
“Aquatabs are water purification tablets that offer a reliable solution for safe consumption,” PIO said.
MEDICAL POST
Meanwhile, health authorities have established and advanced medical post in Barangay Small Margus to serve residents in eight barangays affected by landslides and damaged roads.
The facility is being operated by a Department of Health-augmented medical team from the SOCCSKSARGEN General Hospital in Surallah town. Composed of doctors and nurses, the team provides medical services through rotating deployments.
Santos, said most of the cases handled at the post are only physical injuries, trauma cases, and chronic conditions such as hypertension.
"Napakalaki ng help nila since hindi namin kayang malibot lahat ng barangays especially with the aftermath of the earthquake,” Santos added.
Governor Rogelio Pacquiao ordered the Provincial Health Office and all concerned agencies to ensure that no barangay in earthquake-affected towns is left without access to essential medical care.
