KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The number of individuals injured by the powerful earthquake that struck South Cotabato and nearby provinces on Monday has climbed to 185, while two fatalities have been confirmed as of 6:00 p.m., according to the Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).
Lyza Mula, LDRRMO IV, said damage assessment and validation efforts remain ongoing as response teams continue to gather reports from affected municipalities.
“As of 6:00 p.m., we have recorded 185 injured individuals and two confirmed fatalities. Our teams are still conducting assessment and validation in the affected areas,” Mula said.
The latest Provincial Emergency Operations Center report also recorded damage to public infrastructure, including 47 buildings, two bridges, and 10 road sections that sustained partial damage as a result of the strong ground shaking.
Authorities continue to inspect structures and road networks to determine their safety and identify areas that may require immediate repairs.
Despite the damage, Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. announced the resumption of work at the Provincial Capitol and all provincial government offices beginning Tuesday.
“Operations in the Provincial Government of South Cotabato will resume tomorrow. However, local government units will make their own decisions regarding the suspension or resumption of classes within their respective jurisdictions,” the governor said in an advisory released Monday evening.
The governor earlier ordered the suspension of classes and provincial government operations following the earthquake to allow authorities to conduct safety inspections and damage assessments.
Provincial officials assured employees and the public that government facilities have undergone structural evaluations and continue to be monitored for any signs of damage.
The earthquake struck at approximately 7:37 a.m. Monday, with its epicenter located off the coast of Maasim, Sarangani Province. Initial reports from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) placed the earthquake at magnitude 7.8 and recorded Intensity VII (Destructive) in parts of South Cotabato and General Santos City. The powerful tremor was felt across large portions of Mindanao and triggered tsunami warnings that were later lifted by authorities.
The earthquake caused widespread panic, structural damage, and disruptions to transportation and government services throughout the region. Authorities continue to warn residents to remain vigilant as aftershocks may continue in the coming days and weeks.
The Provincial Government has mobilized emergency response teams and relief resources to assist affected communities while damage assessment and humanitarian operations continue across South Cotabato.
