SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has called on the Department of Education (DepEd) and other government agencies to prioritize the safety and welfare of students and teachers following the powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani Province.

Gatchalian expressed deep concern over initial reports of damaged infrastructure, tsunami threats, and widespread utility disruptions across several parts of Mindanao.

He emphasized the need for an immediate and coordinated response from both national and local authorities to address the disaster’s impact on affected communities.

“The situation calls for an all-hands-on-deck response. I urge the NDRRMC, DSWD, LGUs, and other concerned agencies to immediately deploy search, rescue, and relief operations,” Gatchalian said.

The senator placed particular emphasis on the education sector, noting that several schools in Sarangani were affected just as classes resumed for the new school year.

He urged DepEd to act swiftly to safeguard learners and school personnel by conducting immediate structural assessments of school buildings, providing psychosocial support services, and implementing localized measures to ensure the continuity of learning amid the crisis.

“Our priority must be to save lives and ensure that affected communities have immediate access to safe shelter, food, and medical care,” he added.

Gatchalian also expressed solidarity with affected families across Mindanao and voiced hope for the swift rescue, recovery, and rehabilitation of communities impacted by the earthquake.

Authorities are continuing to assess the extent of the damage as emergency response teams remain deployed in affected areas.