Government Crafting Recovery Plan for Quake-Hit Areas in Region 12
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The national government is developing a comprehensive recovery and rehabilitation plan for communities in Region 12 (Soccsksargen) devastated by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8, 2026, as the scale of the disaster continues to unfold across southern Philippines.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that nearly 1.6 million persons have been affected by the powerful earthquake, making it one of the most impactful natural disasters to hit the southern Philippines in recent years. The death toll has climbed to at least 78, with dozens more still missing and over 32,000 individuals displaced from their homes.
According to Manila Bulletin, government agencies are now shifting from emergency response to long-term recovery planning, with a focus on rebuilding damaged infrastructure, restoring livelihoods, and providing sustained psychosocial support to affected communities in General Santos City, Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat.
Private sector groups have also stepped up their relief and recovery efforts. The Ayala Group mobilized volunteers and resources to support earthquake response operations across South Cotabato and Sarangani, distributing food packs, clean drinking water, and medical supplies to evacuation centers and hard-hit barangays. The initiative is part of a broader corporate commitment to help communities rebuild stronger and more resilient.
Meanwhile, Filipino-Chinese civic organizations united to deliver over ₱11 million in humanitarian assistance to quake victims, while other local government units from across the country extended financial aid and relief goods to support General Santos City and neighboring provinces.
Local officials in General Santos City have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support while emphasizing the need for sustained assistance in the coming months. “The road to recovery will require all of us working together — government, private sector, and civil society,” a city official said during a coordination meeting.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant as aftershocks continue to rattle the region. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and PHIVOLCS have cautioned the public to prepare for potential strong aftershocks and to follow safety protocols during earthquake drills.
The NDRRMC continues to coordinate with local government units, international humanitarian organizations, and volunteer groups to ensure an efficient and equitable distribution of aid across all affected areas in Region 12.