The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) continues its rural search, rescue, and retrieval operations in earthquake-affected communities in Glan, Sarangani, following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off the province’s coast on June 8.

Firefighters and rescue personnel from BFP Regions 10, 11, 12, BARMM, and CARAGA have been deployed across various barangays and remote sitios to assist residents and assess conditions in hard-hit areas.

The ongoing operation has been hampered by damaged roads, logistical challenges, and difficult terrain, with responders trekking for kilometers through mountainous areas and routes blocked by landslides to reach isolated communities.

Rescue efforts were further complicated after a magnitude 5.5 aftershock struck Glan Monday evening, raising safety concerns for both residents and emergency responders.

Despite the challenges, BFP Officer-in-Charge FCSUPT Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu assured the public that the bureau remains fully committed to the response operation.

"The bureau continues operations despite harsh conditions and continues to maximize its resources to support the response efforts. The BFP ensures all its capabilities and equipment are efficiently utilized, and will deploy more as needed to reach those who need it," Kwan Tiu said.

The BFP said it remains on the ground alongside other government agencies as search, rescue, and humanitarian efforts continue in affected areas of Sarangani.