The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed all concerned local government units (LGUs) to immediately implement critical response measures following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake and subsequent magnitude 6.7 aftershock that struck parts of Mindanao on Monday morning.

The directive follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s instruction for LGUs and concerned agencies to urgently coordinate and undertake disaster response, monitoring, and public safety operations across affected areas.

Based on reports from DOST-PHIVOLCS, the magnitude 7.8 earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. at a depth of 33 kilometers, with its epicenter located 32 kilometers south, 4 degrees west offshore near Maasim, Sarangani Province, south-southwest of Mindanao. A magnitude 6.7 aftershock was subsequently recorded in the affected localities and nearby provinces.

In response, the DILG directed all concerned LGUs to immediately activate their respective Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) and the Disaster Online Reporting and Monitoring System (DORMS), and convene their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (LDRRMCs) to ensure the swift implementation of all necessary response actions.

LGUs are likewise reminded to utilize safe and open spaces for evacuation and to assess the structural integrity of evacuation centers and other facilities that may be used to shelter affected residents, ensuring that these can withstand possible aftershocks or another major earthquake.

Local chief executives are further advised to conduct Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA), undertake infrastructure inspections, determine the extent of damage, and closely monitor developments in their respective jurisdictions.

According to the DILG, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Regions XI and XII has been placed on Code Red Alert Status, with all off-duty personnel placed on standby as rapid damage assessments are being conducted in affected areas.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has likewise recalled and deployed personnel from the same regions to support ongoing disaster response and public safety operations.

Meanwhile, the DILG reminds the public to remain vigilant, follow the instructions of local authorities, observe established evacuation protocols, and exercise caution, particularly in coastal communities, due to the possibility of aftershocks and tsunami-related hazards.

“The safety of our people remains our foremost priority. 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 Department said.