In response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to quickly mobilize assistance for communities affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Mindanao, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and its Authorized Agent Corporations immediately moved to extend support to affected families and residents.
Authorized Agent Corporations in Mindanao were among those that quickly moved on the ground to support affected residents and coordinate relief efforts with concerned local partners.
The tectonic earthquake reportedly struck off Sarangani at 7:37 a.m., causing damage to buildings, disrupting utility services, and prompting the suspension of classes and government work in several areas as local authorities continued to assess the extent of the impact.
PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles commended the swift action of the agency’s AAC partners, emphasizing that their response reflects PCSO’s mission of bringing help and hope to Filipinos in urgent need.
“Sa panahon ng sakuna, mas lalong nakikita ang tunay na diwa ng malasakit. Our KawanggaWarriors are showing up when our kababayans need us the most,” Robles said. “Through the collective efforts of PCSO and our Authorized Agent Corporations, we will continue to extend help, hope, and immediate support to families affected by this earthquake.”
Robles said PCSO remains committed to supporting communities in times of calamity, noting that the agency’s network of partners plays a vital role in ensuring that assistance can be delivered quickly, especially in areas directly affected by disasters.
“Ang PCSO ay laging handang umalalay sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na sa panahon ng matinding pangangailangan. We thank our AAC partners in Mindanao for acting with urgency, compassion, and a shared commitment to public service,” Robles added.
The strong tremor was felt across several parts of Mindanao, with reported damage in General Santos City and nearby areas. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology also reported high earthquake intensities in parts of Sarangani and South Cotabato, and warned that damage and aftershocks were expected.
PCSO said its AAC partners will continue to coordinate with local government units and concerned agencies to determine the needs of affected communities and help facilitate the delivery of appropriate assistance.
The agency also assured the public that it remains ready to provide support as relief, response, and recovery efforts continue in Mindanao.
