The entire Province of Sarangani was placed under a state of calamity on Wednesday, June 10, following the widespread damage caused by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao.

In a press release, the Sarangani Provincial Information Office announced that the declaration enables the provincial government and local government units (LGUs) to mobilize emergency funds, expedite relief and rehabilitation efforts, and provide immediate assistance to affected communities while ensuring a faster and more coordinated disaster response.

Governor Rogelio Pacquiao said the declaration is a crucial step in ensuring that assistance reaches affected residents without delay.

“Sa ilalim ng State of Calamity, mas mapapalawak at mapapabilis natin ang pagpapatupad ng mga interbensyon sa mga apektadong lugar," Pacquiao stated.

Moreover, Pacquiao, along with Vice Governor Danny Martinez, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan members, heads of offices, and other officials, convened on Wednesday to discuss the impact of the earthquake, particularly in the towns of Glan and Malapatan, and the municipalities of Alabel, Malungon, Kiamba, Maasim, and Maitum.

The Sarangani Governor urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the ongoing response efforts as aftershocks continue to be felt in the province.

Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Deputy Administrator Assistant Secretary Raffy Alejandro confirmed in an interview on DZRH’s Damdaming Bayan that the death toll from the earthquake had climbed to 45, as of 6:00 AM on Wednesday. Moreover, authorities said that four people remain missing in Glan, Sarangani, and another four in General Santos City.

On Monday, June 8, General Santos City was placed under a state of calamity, Vice Mayor Jose Edmar announced.