Philippine President Marcos Inspects Sarangani School Amid Earthquake Aftermath

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inspected a school in Sarangani province on Thursday to assess damage from a magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on October 30, according to a statement from the Office of the President. The visit came as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported ground deformation in parts of Sarangani and General Santos City, with over 6,100 aftershocks recorded since the initial quake.

Phivolcs Warns of Unstable Ground in 38% of General Santos Barangays

Phivolcs issued a public advisory on October 31, stating that 38% of barangays in General Santos City face risks of ground instability due to the earthquake. The agency cited reports of land fissures and subsidence in several areas, urging residents to avoid construction on affected sites. “The ground deformation observed in parts of Sarangani and General Santos is a direct result of the strong seismic activity,” said Phivolcs Director Earl Devora in a press conference.

Over 6,100 Aftershocks Recorded, Triggering Public Concern

As of November 1, Phivolcs reported 6,128 aftershocks following the October 30 earthquake, with the largest measuring magnitude 6.2. The agency emphasized that while the frequency of tremors has decreased, the risk of further ground shifts remains. “Residents should remain vigilant and heed local government warnings,” said Devora, adding that 127 communities across Mindanao are under “high-risk” classifications.

DOH Assures Hospital Safety Amid Seismic Concerns

The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed on October 31 that all hospitals in affected regions, including General Santos and Sarangani, remain operational. “We have conducted structural assessments and ensured that medical facilities are safe for patients and staff,” said DOH Secretary Maria Rosario Vergeire. The agency also deployed mobile health units to rural areas with limited access to healthcare services.

Earthquake Displaces Thousands, Sparks Infrastructure Repairs

The quake, which was felt across Mindanao and parts of the Visayas, displaced over 10,000 families, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). Local governments have initiated repairs to damaged roads, schools, and bridges, with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) allocating ₱500 million for emergency reconstruction. “Our priority is to restore basic services and ensure the safety of communities,” said DPWH Secretary Mark Villar.

The Philippine government continues to monitor seismic activity, with Phivolcs maintaining a 24-hour alert system. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, experts caution that the region’s fault lines remain active, underscoring the need for preparedness and early warning systems.