Iloilo City – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has mobilized resources to assist families affected by the recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake in Sarangani, Davao Occidental, and other provinces in Mindanao. An initial PHP5.1 million worth of aid has been reported to support the relief efforts.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a statement issued on Sunday, the DSWD detailed the relief operations conducted in Regions 11 (Davao Region) and 12 (Soccsksargen), led by Secretary Rex Gatchalian. The DSWD Field Office-12 distributed 6,500 family food packs (FFPs) to Sarangani province and General Santos City. Additionally, cash assistance of PHP10,000 was provided to six families who suffered the loss of relatives in the earthquake.
The DSWD Field Office-11 sent 1,000 FFPs to Sarangani Island to aid those impacted. The latest report from the DSWD indicates that 951 families, or 1,229 individuals in 25 villages, have been affected by the earthquake. In total, twenty-two houses were completely destroyed, and 48 suffered partial damage across the provinces of Davao Occidental, Sarangani, and South Cotabato.
The earthquake, which caused intense shaking of VII (destructive) in Glan, Sarangani, and VI (very strong) in Koronadal and Polomolok in South Cotabato and General Santos City, prompted swift response measures. Assistant Secretary for Strategic Communications Romel Lopez confirmed ongoing coordination with local government units (LGUs) to assess further needs and interventions. "We assure the public that the DSWD is on top of the situation," Lopez stated, emphasizing the readiness to support LGUs' requests for additional aid.
To support its disaster response operations, the DSWD maintains over PHP2.8 billion in standby and stockpile funds. Additionally, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has engaged its Mindanao branches and small-town lottery (STL) operators to participate in relief operations. STL operators and LGUs distributed food packs to families in Malapatan, Sarangani Province, and Barangay Bula, General Santos City. The PCSO is also offering medical aid through its Medical Assistance Program and has allocated calamity funds. PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles highlighted the importance of collaboration with local government units to ensure timely and effective assistance.