DILG to Mindanao residents: Let authorities assess quake-affected structures first
MANILA, Philippines — Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Friday advised residents in Mindanao to allow authorities to assess the stability of structures affected by the recent strong earthquakes there before utilizing them again.
Año said local chief executives are deployed on the ground to assess the damage and spearhead immediate response operations, including the evacuation of victims.
“We ask all residents to first assess with local authorities the stability of affected structures before utilizing them again. Please cooperate with the various DRRMC [Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council] entities and your LGUs [local government units] to ensure your safety and well-being,” he said in a statement.
Just on Thursday, parts of Mindanao saw the third strong earthquake — a magnitude 6.5 tremor — in the region for the month of October since the magnitude 6.3 earthquake on October 16. This was followed by another magnitude 5.5. tremblor that hit parts of the southern Philippines on Friday.
Amid these series of earthquakes, Año assured that all DRRMCs in affected areas are convened and operational, together with other DRRMCs from nearby LGUs to supplement their efforts.
He added that assistance from various national government agencies are also continuously coming in and that the government is continuously mobilizing resources to aid affected residents.
Article continues after this advertisement“In these trying times, we encourage the people to remain calm and face the challenges with the safety of the people as the first priority,” he also said. /jpv
Article continues after this advertisementHow You Can Help
Inquirer calls for support for the victims of earthquakes in Mindanao
Responding to appeals for help, the Inquirer is extending its relief to the families affected by the recent earthquakes in Mindanao.
Cash donations may be deposited in the Inquirer Foundation Corp. Banco De Oro (BDO) Current Account No: 007960018860.
Inquiries may be addressed and emailed to Inquirer’s Corporate Affairs office through [email protected].
