Mindanao earthquake: LGUs on full alert, BFP under Code Red
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) placed all concerned local government units (LGUs) on full alert and ordered the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to raise a Code Red alert following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao.
“We call on all local governments, responders, and communities to work together, remain alert, and take all necessary precautions as authorities continue assessment and response operations in affected areas,” the DILG said on Monday.
According to the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck at 7:37 a.m. at a depth of 33 kilometers.
Its epicenter was located 32 kilometers south, 4 degrees west offshore of Maasim, Sarangani province, in the south-southwestern portion of Mindanao.
A magnitude 6.7 aftershock was later recorded in nearby provinces.
READ: Magnitude 7.8 earthquake leaves 32 dead, 12 missing in Mindanao
In response, the DILG instructed affected LGUs to activate their Emergency Operations Centers and the Disaster Online Reporting and Monitoring System.
It also directed them to convene their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils to ensure immediate and coordinated response actions.
LGUs were reminded to identify safe evacuation areas and assess the structural integrity of evacuation centers and other facilities for displaced residents to ensure resilience against aftershocks and further seismic activity.
Local chief executives were further directed to conduct Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis, inspect critical infrastructure, assess damage levels, and closely monitor conditions in their respective areas.
The BFP in Regions XI and XII has been placed under Code Red Alert Status, with off-duty personnel on standby as rapid assessments continue in affected communities.
The DILG urged the public to remain alert, follow instructions from local authorities, observe evacuation protocols, and exercise caution, especially in coastal areas, amid the risk of aftershocks and possible tsunami-related hazards. /mcm
HELP MINDANAO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS
The Inquirer Foundation is calling for support for communities devastated by the recent magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao.
In partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, the foundation is amplifying appeals for food, clean water and other critical assistance for affected families.
Donors may send contributions directly to the Philippine Red Cross through its official transfer channels, the complete list is available on the PRC’s Facebook page.
The Philippine Red Cross has activated its emergency fund campaign and deployed teams on the ground to provide medical services, distribute relief goods and extend psychosocial support to affected families.
