The House of Representatives has adopted a resolution expressing deep sympathy, concern, and full support for victims of the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck General Santos City, Sarangani, and other parts of Southern Mindanao on June 8.
During a special session, lawmakers called on members to “collectively and individually rise up to meet the challenges of relief and rehabilitation in the earthquake-stricken areas for the purpose of providing any form of assistance to the earthquake victims.”
Through voice voting, the plenary approved House Resolution No. 1131, introduced by Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III, Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos, and Minority Leader Marcelino C. Libanan.
The resolution noted that the disaster has claimed at least 68 lives, left 33 persons missing, injured hundreds, and affected thousands of families. It also cited widespread destruction, including collapsed structures, damaged commercial establishments, and disruptions to schools and government services.
Lawmakers recognized the severe impact on affected communities, with many families left bereaved, injured, displaced, and in need of urgent humanitarian and long-term recovery assistance.
The resolution stated that the House, “as the elected voice of the Filipino people,” recognizes its “solemn duty to stand in solidarity with the victims of this tragic disaster, to extend compassion and empathy, and to affirm its unwavering commitment to support relief, rehabilitation, and resilience-building efforts.”
It also acknowledged the swift response of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., including directives for the Department of Social Welfare and Development to pre-position relief goods and ensure evacuation centers are ready and operational, and for the Department of Public Works and Highways to assess and clear damaged infrastructure for rescue and relief operations.
Lawmakers likewise recognized the visit of House leaders headed by Speaker Dy to General Santos City and Sarangani, where they personally assessed conditions and extended assistance to affected residents.
The resolution further stressed that “the spirit of bayanihan and collective resolve must guide the nation in confronting the aftermath of this calamity, ensuring that no community is left behind in the path toward healing and recovery.”
The House reaffirmed its commitment to support ongoing relief, rehabilitation, and recovery efforts as affected communities work to rebuild from one of the most devastating earthquakes to hit Southern Mindanao in recent years.