Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 6) — Surigao del Sur has declared a state of calamity due to the damage brought by the magnitude 7.4 earthquake and series of aftershocks that shook the province.
Local officials issued Resolution No. 1410-23 on Wednesday, expanding the state of calamity declaration earlier announced for Hinatuan town to the entire province to “hasten the relief and rehabilitation efforts.”
Data from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office showed 116,217 families or more than 30% of Surigao del Sur’s population were affected.
The reported deaths now stand at three while at least 48 others were injured, according to the latest report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
Over 800 houses were also totally destroyed, while 1,141 more were partially damaged.
Damage to infrastructure and agriculture already reached more than ₱110.93 million.
Additionally, Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander Pimentel called off the Christmas parties of all local government units “from the Barangay, Municipality, City and the Province.”
He declared that funds meant for Christmas festivities will be given to the victims of the earthquake.
Although private companies are free to proceed with their celebrations, Pimentel advised them not to do so for the safety of their employees.
