Davao City to send rescue teams to quake-hit Cebu

 

By Keith Bacongco

DAVAO CITY – The city government is preparing teams to assist in the rescue efforts in the earthquake-affected areas of northern Cebu province.

In a statement, the City Information Office (CIO) said the city government is coordinating with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) to determine the needs in disaster-hit areas.

“Yes, we will send help to Cebu,” the CIO said. “While ground assessments are ongoing, Davao City 911 Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, along with our medical teams and psychosocial workers, are now ready to be deployed. We are also preparing food items for the affected areas,” it added.

City emergency and disaster response units are on standby for deployment as soon as coordination with Cebu authorities is completed, the CIO added.

The city government has been sending different forms of assistance to disaster-hit areas in different parts of the country.

The city’s 911 USAR is equipped with among the most advanced emergency response equipment in the country.

Meanwhile, Sultan Kudarat province Gov. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu has extended his solidarity with people of Cebu following the magnitude-6.9 earthquake.

“We especially convey our solidarity with Gov. Pam Baricuatro as she leads her people through this time of great sorrow and challenge. We recognize the immense burden placed upon Cebu’s communities and leadership, yet we believe that with unity, courage, and faith, Cebu will rise again,” Mangudadatu said.

He added that the people of Sultan Kudarat grieve with the families who have lost loved ones, including those who were injured and displaced. “Please remember that Sultan Kudarat is with you in prayers, in spirit, and in support.”