The Eastern Mindanao Command activated its emergency response team and placed its units on heightened alert following the earthquake that struck several parts of Mindanao on the morning of June 8.
Lt. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, EastMinCom commander, ordered the activation of the Command Emergency Response Team shortly after the quake to support immediate monitoring, coordination, assessment, and disaster response operations within its Joint Operational Area.
EastMinCom said it has begun Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis activities in affected areas in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense, local government units, disaster risk reduction and management offices, and other concerned agencies.
The command said the assessment aims to validate reports of damage, identify urgent needs on the ground, and determine which communities require immediate assistance.
As part of the initial response, Orio personally led an aerial reconnaissance over General Santos City earlier in the day to assess the situation and help identify areas that may need faster coordination and deployment of resources.
EastMinCom said its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response units, medical teams, engineering units, communication assets, and mobility platforms remain on standby for possible deployment.
The command said it will continue to monitor quake-hit areas and provide support to disaster response operations to help ensure the safety and welfare of affected communities.