TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL — The Provincial Government of Bohol is swiftly mobilizing help for the earthquake-devastated communities in Mindanao. Governor Aris Aumentado convened a special emergency meeting on June 8, 2026, in response to the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck the SOCCSKSARGEN Region. Vice Governor Nick Besas presided, and the council immediately approved the deployment of vital rescue teams and millions in financial assistance.
The Bohol Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office will deploy two Search, Rescue, and Retrieval Teams on June 9. Dr. Anthony Damalerio, the PDRRMO head, confirmed one team is assigned to Sarangani Province and the other to General Santos City. Governor Aumentado also directed the expansion of the SRR deployment to assist even more affected communities.
A Swift and Coordinated Response to a Regional Crisis
The council recommended substantial financial aid drawn from the province's own Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund. This includes ₱2 million for General Santos City and ₱1.5 million each for Sarangani Province and South Cotabato. Beyond the immediate cash assistance, the Provincial Government is launching a dedicated relief drive. This aims to gather essential supplies for the displaced families.
The rapid mobilization demonstrates Bohol's well-practiced emergency coordination. Having faced its own devastating earthquake in 2013, the provincial government understands the critical importance of a swift, well-organized response. This neighborly act reflects a deep institutional empathy and a commitment to turning lessons learned into life-saving action for others.
Extending a Helping Hand Beyond Borders
Governor Aumentado's directive aligns with the Capitol's Strategic Governance Roadmap, which prioritizes resilience and community support. The meeting concluded with a firm commitment to ensure the timely deployment of all resources. It is a powerful demonstration that bayanihan extends far beyond provincial borders in times of profound crisis.
This assistance is a significant gesture of solidarity from the Visayas to Mindanao. For the people of General Santos, Sarangani, and South Cotabato, it means trained rescuers will join local efforts to find survivors and provide critical aid. It is a tangible message that they are not alone in this disaster, and that help has arrived from across the sea.
