SENATOR Risa Hontiveros has pledged continued support for the rehabilitation of educational facilities damaged by the recent earthquake in Mindanao, stressing the need to ensure that learning institutions recover and continue serving affected students.

Speaking during the distribution of relief goods in Barangay Hicban, General Santos City, Hontiveros said she met with officials of Mindanao State University–General Santos, including representatives from its College of Medicine, to assess the earthquake’s impact and identify areas requiring government assistance.

She noted that local officials and community leaders remain the primary sources of information on the extent of damage. In Barangay Hicban alone, she said authorities reported that around 500 households were completely destroyed by the quake.

As part of the Senate’s response, Hontiveros said lawmakers are coordinating with government agencies to address both housing and infrastructure needs in affected communities, while also prioritizing the recovery of educational institutions that sustained damage.

She disclosed that during her meeting with MSU-GenSan officials, the university chancellor relayed an initial commitment from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to support rehabilitation efforts.

“Kung may kulang pa doon, titingnan ko kung paano makakatulong ang opisina ko, at kung kulang pa rin, maghahatak pa tayo ng ibang kasamang senador,” Hontiveros said.

The senator said she would explore additional funding sources for the university, particularly if existing commitments fall short of addressing the damage to campus facilities.

Hontiveros also underscored the Senate’s role in ensuring sufficient funding for rehabilitation and recovery projects during upcoming budget deliberations.

She noted that several senators, including Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian, have already visited affected areas and expressed support for Mindanao’s recovery efforts.

According to Hontiveros, senators have likewise committed to donating one month of their salaries as a gesture of solidarity with earthquake victims.

“Let the whole Senate stand with Mindanao,” she said.

Beyond immediate relief operations, Hontiveros emphasized the need for long-term rehabilitation, including the restoration of schools and universities that play a vital role in regional development.

Addressing affected residents, she assured that government assistance would extend beyond relief and rescue efforts.

“Hindi lang ito relief o rescue kundi hanggang sa rehabilitation,” she said, adding that support for affected communities and educational institutions will be prioritized in upcoming budget discussions.

She stressed that sustained cooperation among government agencies, lawmakers, and local communities will be crucial in rebuilding damaged infrastructure and ensuring students can safely continue their education in the aftermath of the quake.