Under the leadership of Provincial Engineer  Lloyd M. Esparagosa, the Office of the Provincial Engineer (OPE) deployed engineers, architects, and technical personnel to conduct rapid infrastructure assessments across South Cotabato.

A total of 57 government buildings and facilities and seven major bridges were inspected and evaluated to determine their structural condition and ensure the safety of employees and the public.

“Our priority was to immediately determine the condition of government facilities and critical infrastructure after the earthquake. We wanted to ensure that our buildings remain safe for occupancy and that our bridges remain passable for motorists and emergency responders,” Esparagosa said.

The assessment was conducted through a collaborative effort involving personnel from the Office of the Provincial Engineer, Office of the Provincial Health Officer, South Cotabato Provincial Hospital, Office of the Provincial Planning and Development Officer, Office of the Provincial General Services Officer, Office of the Provincial Governor–Internal Audit Service, and the Inspectorate Unit.

According to Esparagosa, the rapid assessment enabled the provincial government to identify areas that require further monitoring while ensuring that essential government services can continue without disruption.

“The immediate inspection allowed us to verify the condition of our facilities and prioritize any necessary interventions. Structural safety is critical, especially after a major seismic event,” he said.

The Provincial Engineer commended the dedication of the assessment teams who worked immediately after the earthquake to inspect facilities throughout the province.

“Our engineers, architects, and technical personnel responded quickly. Their expertise and commitment allowed us to complete the initial assessments in a timely manner and provide accurate information to decision-makers,” Esparagosa added.

The inspections were carried out under the guidance of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., who directed concerned offices to ensure that all government facilities and critical infrastructure are thoroughly evaluated following the earthquake.

Governor Tamayo emphasized the importance of safeguarding public infrastructure to protect both government workers and residents who rely on essential public services.

The Provincial Government continues to monitor the condition of government buildings, roads, bridges, and other public structures as aftershocks remain possible in the coming weeks.

Esparagosa also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and immediately report any signs of structural damage in buildings, bridges, or other infrastructure.

“We encourage the public to report visible cracks, unusual structural movement, or any damage that may affect safety. Early reporting allows authorities to conduct proper assessments and implement necessary measures,” he said.

The Provincial Government of South Cotabato reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of public infrastructure through timely inspections, proactive monitoring, and responsive action in the aftermath of disasters.

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The governor said the gesture demonstrates the spirit of solidarity among local government units during times of crisis.

“We are thankful to the provinces of Cebu and Bohol for their concern and willingness to help. This is how provinces help each other during difficult times,” Tamayo said.

Despite the offers of assistance, the governor assured the public that South Cotabato remains on top of the situation, citing the province’s quick and coordinated response immediately after the earthquake.

“Our quick response mechanism remains intact. South Cotabato is ready and capable of responding to emergencies. We continue to monitor the situation closely and provide the necessary assistance to affected communities,” he said.

As of the latest report from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), the earthquake left two persons dead and 185 injured in South Cotabato. Damage assessment teams have also recorded 47 damaged buildings, two damaged bridges, and 10 road sections that sustained partial damage due to the strong ground shaking.

The earthquake struck at approximately 7:37 a.m. on June 8, with its epicenter located about 32 kilometers southwest of Maasim, Sarangani Province. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) recorded the earthquake at magnitude 7.8, while Instrumental Intensity VII was experienced in Koronadal City and other parts of South Cotabato. The tremor was felt across Mindanao and triggered tsunami warnings that were later lifted by authorities.

Tamayo noted that while South Cotabato was among the provinces affected by the earthquake, it has also extended assistance to neighboring General Santos City and Sarangani Province, which suffered heavier damage.

“In fact, we have already sent help to General Santos City and Sarangani. Our Search and Rescue Team is there assisting local responders, and our search and rescue dogs have also been deployed to support retrieval operations,” the governor said.

The governor likewise commended South Cotabateños for their cooperation and unity, which he said enabled authorities to immediately address the challenges brought by the disaster.

“I would like to thank all South Cotabateños for their unity and cooperation. Sa tunay na pagkakaisa, na-address natin kaagad ang problema sa maikling panahon,” Tamayo said.

He emphasized that despite the strong earthquake, no evacuation centers were established, and no residents were displaced in South Cotabato.

“Wala tayong evacuation centers at wala rin tayong evacuees. Ipinakita natin kung paano nagkakaisa ang South Cotabato sa panahon ng pagsubok,” he said.

According to the governor, the province’s preparedness programs, coordinated response efforts, and the cooperation of residents played a vital role in preventing a larger humanitarian crisis.

“This is how South Cotabato unites during difficult times. Ipagpatuloy natin ang pagkakaisa dahil ito ang ating pinakamalaking lakas bilang isang lalawigan,” Tamayo added.

Provincial authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and conduct infrastructure assessments while response teams remain on standby. Relief supplies and emergency resources remain available should additional assistance be needed in affected communities.

South Cotabato’s rescue personnel continue to assist neighboring Sarangani Province as regional recovery and response operations proceed.

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Health facilities reported that while severe physical injuries remained limited, the sudden surge of panic-driven symptoms placed hospitals on heightened alert as patients sought immediate medical attention shortly after the 7:37 a.m. tremor yesterday.

The South Cotabato Provincial Hospital recorded the highest number of cases, treating 27 patients 8 for hyperventilation and several others for elevated blood pressure triggered by shock and anxiety and 19 individuals sustained minor injuries while rushing out of buildings during evacuation.

Polomolok Municipal Hopsital attended a total of 4 earthquake-related patients including  2 cases of hyperventilation, 1 lacerations, and 1 femur fracture that required urgent orthopedic care.

Meanwhile, the Norala District Hopsital managed 9 cases, mostly involving students who experienced hyperventilation, along with minor injuries such as abrasions and lacerations.

Despite the sudden influx of patients, hospital personnel were able to respond quickly and maintain continuous medical services, ensuring that all individuals received timely treatment and monitoring.

Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. commended the swift response of medical teams and assured stressed that public safety remains the provincial government’s top priority amid ongoing response efforts.

“Ang kaligtasan ng ating mga mamamayan ay nananatiling pangunahing prayoridad. Patuloy tayong magtutulungan, maging alerto, at sumunod sa mga opisyal na anunsyo ng ating mga awtoridad.”

The Provincial Government’s Incident Management Team (IMT), led by Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Rolly Doane C. Aquino, RN, continues to monitor hospital reports and coordinate response operations as aftershocks remain a concern in several areas.

Health officials also reminded the public that anxiety, dizziness, and breathing difficulties are common after traumatic events such as earthquakes, particularly among children and students, and encouraged those experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention.

Authorities said the hospital data reflects not only the immediate physical impact of the earthquake, but also the widespread psychological effect on communities across South Cotabato.

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Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. announced that all provincial government employees have been directed to return to work today, June 9, as part of the provincial government’s efforts to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential public services to the people of South Cotabato.

Immediately after the earthquake, the Provincial Government activated its emergency response mechanisms and deployed Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) Teams across affected areas.

According to Governor Tamayo, the provincial administration prioritized the inspection and assessment of vital government facilities, including hospitals, the Provincial Jail, government offices, and other public structures that provide essential services to residents.

“I have a timeline priority on infrastructure, hospitals, the Provincial Jail, and Provincial Government facilities. In just a few hours, we will know the actual condition of the structures because our Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis Team was immediately deployed and all response mechanisms were activated. Our goal is to automatically restore operations and ensure that services remain 100 percent fully operational,” Governor Tamayo said.

The governor emphasized that maintaining the continuity of government services is one of the province’s top priorities during times of disaster.

Governor Tamayo likewise ordered all provincial government employees to report back to their respective offices, stressing the importance of a unified and coordinated response during emergencies.

“I need the help of every employee. Their presence is essential in clearing operations, stabilizing the situation after the earthquake, and maximizing all available resources and manpower to provide immediate solutions and services to residents affected by this disaster,” the governor added.

Despite the strong tremor that was felt across the province, provincial officials assured the public that government operations remain stable and responsive.

The swift response demonstrated by provincial authorities highlights the government’s preparedness and dedication to maintaining essential services even amid significant natural disasters.

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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.

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Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Rolly Aquino said authorities are still validating reports from affected areas and have yet to release the identities of the victims.

“We have recorded two casualties as of this time. Validation is ongoing, and we are coordinating closely with local government units for a complete assessment of the situation,” Aquino said.

Aquino also reported that key road networks in the province have been affected by landslides and ground movement triggered by the earthquake.

Among the roads currently not passable are the Tbolok, Tboli to San Jose, General Santos City Road and the Lampari, Banga to Simbo, Tupi Road.

Emergency response teams have been deployed to assess damage, clear affected roads, and provide assistance to residents in impacted communities.

Meanwhile, Provincial Information Officer Rudy Jimenea assured the public that all provincial government buildings remain structurally safe following inspections conducted by the Provincial Engineering Office and officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

“Based on the assessment conducted by our Provincial Engineering Office and DPWH personnel, all provincial government buildings were found safe,” Jimenea said.

Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. expressed concern for affected families and immediately ordered the suspension of classes and government operations throughout the province.

“The Governor’s primary concern is the safety and welfare of our constituents. Classes at all levels and operations in provincial government offices are suspended today to allow authorities to conduct assessments and ensure public safety,” Jimenea said.

He added that work will resume tomorrow in the Provincial Capitol. However, announcement of classes will be released by the local government units as soon as authorities complete their evaluation.

Provincial authorities also confirmed that food packs are ready for immediate distribution to families affected by the earthquake.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported that no fire incidents have been recorded in the aftermath of the tremor.

“We have not received any reports of fire incidents related to the earthquake,” said SFO1 Paolo Gabucan of the BFP.

However, he advised residents to remain vigilant and inspect their homes for possible hazards.

“We encourage everyone to check for possible gas leaks, damaged electrical wirings, and other hazards that may have resulted from the earthquake,” Gabucan said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) likewise urged residents to follow official advisories and cooperate with authorities during ongoing response operations.

“We ask the public to remain calm, follow government recommendations, and avoid entering areas that have been declared unsafe. Your cooperation is vital to ensure everyone’s safety,” PMaj. Randy Apostol said.

Authorities continue to conduct rapid damage assessments across the province while response and relief operations remain underway.

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Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. underscored that the provincial government carefully planned the celebration to ensure that public funds allocated for the festival would be utilized effectively and responsibly.

“The T’nalak Festival is not merely about festivities and entertainment. It is an opportunity to showcase who we are as South Cotabateños, to honor our roots, and to highlight the culture, traditions, and products that make our province unique,” Governor Tamayo said.

According to the governor, every activity included in the month-long celebration was designed not only to entertain residents and visitors but also to promote awareness and appreciation of South Cotabato’s rich cultural heritage, longstanding traditions, and locally produced goods.

Governor Tamayo explained that his role in the preparation of the celebration focuses on providing direction and support rather than directly managing the details of every activity.

“I do not interfere with the specific details of each program and competition. We trust our committees to manage their respective activities because they know best how to make these events meaningful and successful,” he said.

Beyond cultural preservation, the festival also serves as a significant driver of local economic activity.

Governor Tamayo stressed that one of the provincial government’s priorities is to provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs, farmers, artisans, and exhibitors to showcase their products and services.

The 27th T’nalak Festival and 60th Foundation Anniversary stand as a celebration of South Cotabato’s past, present, and future a testament to the enduring value of culture, tradition, history, and community driven development.

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The initiative aims to improve access to timely and accurate information among residents living in unserved and underserved communities, particularly those with limited access to electricity, internet connectivity, and other communication services.

Through the solar-powered radios, beneficiaries will be able to receive important government announcements, disaster preparedness advisories, agricultural updates, educational programs, and other public service information.

According to Anna Liz Cabrido, Information Officer II, the distribution reflects the provincial government’s commitment to ensure that no community is left behind when it comes to access to information.

“Information is a basic necessity, especially for communities located in far-flung areas. Through these solar-powered radios, we hope to keep our residents informed, connected, and prepared for any situation that may arise,” Cabrido emphasized.

She added that radio remains one of the most effective communication tools, especially in isolated areas and during emergencies when other means of communication may not be available.

One of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the assistance, emphasizing the importance of receiving timely and reliable information.

“Dako gid ini nga bulig sa amon. Makabati kami sang mga balita kag impormasyon nga importante para sa amon pamilya kag komunidad bisan wala internet,” said one recipient.

Other beneficiaries said that radios represent an opportunity to stay updated on matters that directly affect their families and livelihoods.

“Dako gid ang amon pasalamat sa Provincial Government. Sa sini nga radyo, makabati kami sang mga balita kag impormasyon nga makabulig sa amon adlaw-adlaw nga pagpangabuhi lalo na ang mga program ni Gov. Tamayo,” said one beneficiary.

The distribution forms part of the Convergence Approach for Transformation and Change–Unification Program (CATCH-UP), which continues to bring essential government services and development interventions closer to underserved communities across South Cotabato.

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Through the Office of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (OPSWDO) and its Disaster Response Team, shelter kit assistance was extended to 23 families from Purok Santos, Barangay Zone III, Koronadal City, who were affected by a recent demolition activity.

The assistance forms part of the province’s immediate disaster response initiatives, aimed at providing temporary shelter support and easing the burden of displaced families while they recover and rebuild their lives. The provincial government allocated shelter materials worth ₱80,500.00 for the beneficiaries.

The initiative reflects the province’s continuing commitment to inclusive and responsive governance, ensuring that no South Cotabateño is left behind during times of crisis.

Sonia Bautista, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer, underscored the importance of swift humanitarian action in situations involving displacement.

“Our priority is to ensure that families affected by unexpected displacement receive immediate support. These shelter kits are not just materials—they represent hope, dignity, and a temporary safe space while they work toward rebuilding their homes and stability,” she said.

She further emphasized that the provincial government remains committed to strengthening its disaster response mechanisms to ensure timely and appropriate assistance for vulnerable communities.

The Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to call for stronger coordination among local agencies and community stakeholders to ensure that assistance programs are delivered efficiently and reach those who need them most.

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Her appointment marks a key transition in the legislative support office, which plays a vital role in ensuring the efficient documentation, coordination, and implementation of the provincial board’s legislative functions.

According to Atty. Tandog, “It is a bit pressure because SP is quite a large organization, but I am grateful. There should be one secretariat, one standard, one mission”.

As Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Atty. Tandog is expected to oversee the preparation of legislative records, ordinances, and resolutions, as well as facilitate smooth coordination between board members and concerned provincial offices.

“Padayunon naton ang programa ni Vice Governor Pingoy nga digitalization gid sang SP. On track naman ang aton nga tracking system kag paperless system. The next step is to take it live online. Para at least wherever you are, biskan ara sila sila sa ila munisipyo, kung need nila mag follow up, ma-track na nila. No need to come here.” Atty. Tandog said.

Provincial officials expressed confidence that her legal background and experience in public service will strengthen administrative efficiency and further improve legislative processes in the province, also citing its importance in maintaining continuity and professionalism in legislative operations.

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