Metro Manila, Philippines – President Bongbong Marcos has directed agencies to immediately coordinate disaster response efforts in light of the destructive magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani on Monday, June 8, triggering a tsunami warning in a number of coastal provinces in Mindanao.
Marcos said the Office of Civil Defense and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council are coordinating response operations and monitoring the situation in affected areas.
He said the Department of Social Welfare and Development has been directed to pre-position relief goods and ensure evacuation centers are ready and operational for affected residents.
In addition, the Department of Public Works and Highways is on standby to assess damage to roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure, as well as clear routes needed for rescue and relief operations.
Marcos said he ordered the suspension of classes at all levels in affected areas of Mindanao until further notice.
“The national government is moving and we will not leave Mindanao behind,” Marcos said.
