More than a week after a powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck General Santos City and surrounding areas in Mindanao, thousands of residents remain displaced, seeking refuge in makeshift shelters across the city. The quake, which hit on June 8, 2026, left widespread structural damage and forced families out of their homes as aftershocks continued to rattle the region.
Evacuation Centers Strain Under Pressure
According to reports from Rappler, many General Santos City residents are still living in temporary evacuation centers, with limited access to clean water, proper sanitation, and adequate food supplies. The city government, along with national agencies and non-governmental organizations, has been working around the clock to provide relief goods and medical assistance to affected families.
The earthquake, one of the strongest to hit Mindanao in recent years, caused significant damage to residential buildings, commercial establishments, and critical infrastructure. Major commercial establishments along Pendatun Avenue and other key areas in General Santos City were reported to be largely unusable more than a week after the disaster.
Phivolcs Warns of Unstable Ground
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has warned that approximately 38 percent of General Santos City barangays are experiencing ground deformation, making many areas unsafe for residents to return. The agency has advised communities in affected barangays to remain vigilant and follow evacuation protocols as aftershocks continue.
Phivolcs also observed ground deformation in parts of neighboring Sarangani province, raising concerns about the long-term stability of the region. Residents have been urged to avoid damaged structures and report any new cracks or unusual ground movements to local authorities.
Community Resilience Shines Through
Despite the hardship, the spirit of bayanihan remains strong in General Santos City. Local volunteers, community organizations, and businesses have mobilized to distribute food, water, and essential supplies to those in evacuation centers. The Philippine Army has also been actively involved in rescue and relief operations, particularly in areas where buildings collapsed during the quake.
Various local government units from across the country have extended aid to General Santos City. Cebu province approved P10 million in assistance, while Mandaue City pledged P1 million to support recovery efforts. Private sector groups, including Ayala Corporation, have also launched relief operations in South Cotabato and Sarangani.
Road to Recovery
As General Santos City begins the long road to recovery, local officials are calling for accelerated repairs to the power grid and road networks. The city airport, which was initially limited to quake response flights, has since resumed commercial operations, helping restore vital connections to the rest of the Philippines.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels and to continue following safety guidelines as the city works toward rebuilding and recovery. For those wishing to help, donations can be channeled through recognized relief organizations operating in the Soccsksargen region.