Local officials have urged residents of General Santos City to remain vigilant as persistent aftershocks continue to rattle Mindanao following a massive magnitude 7.8 earthquake on Monday morning, June 8.
The coastal city, situated along Sarangani Bay in the Soccsksargen region, is among the hardest-hit areas. City Public Information Officer Rombel Catolico reported that as of 3:30 p.m., the disaster had tragically claimed nine lives and left 142 individuals injured.
In an interview with DZRH, Catolico confirmed that authorities immediately suspended classes, sending students home safely just as the new school year was getting underway.
Even hours after the initial powerful tremor, aftershocks have continued to shake the city, prompting local leaders to reinforce safety warnings.
“Kaya advise talaga, kung may mga nakikinig na taga-dito sa GenSan, na maging mapamatyag, and then kung may mga emergency, i-contact kaagad ang PDRRMO hotline: 552-3939.”
Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian has already arrived in the city to coordinate relief efforts with the city mayor and local officials. General Santos City’s lone district representative, Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles, is also on the ground to monitor the ongoing emergency response.
While a comprehensive damage assessment is still underway, Catolico noted that multiple establishments suffered structural damage. The affected infrastructure includes five shopping malls, seven hospitals, four hotels, five schools, three restaurants, two banks, two pharmacies, and the General Santos City airport. Fortunately, all major roads remain open and passable.
Residents are reminded to keep their communication lines open, prepare emergency supplies, and adhere to proven safety protocols.
“Sa mga taga-GenSan: maging mapamatyag po tayo, and then as much as possible, try po natin na mai-charge ang ating mga telepono, at kailangan, ready po ‘yung mga Go Bag. And then sundin natin ‘yung mga nalaman at naituro sa atin sa mga earthquake drill. I hope you keep safe and, of course, be vigilant.”
Emergency response teams remain deployed across the city to provide medical aid, evaluate structural integrity, and prepare for any further seismic activity.