Mindanao quake leaves P86-M infra damage

Fire and rubble The devastation left by the recent Mindanao earthquake cost millions in damages.

The damage to infrastructure caused by the magnitude 6.3 earthquake that hit parts of Mindanao has reached P86 million, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) disclosed on Monday.

While all major roads and bridges in the region remain passable, DPWH reported that some infrastructure were partially damaged and are continuously being monitored due to occurrence of aftershocks.

“Upon inspection, cracks were noted on the bridge bank protection of Olandang Bridges 2 and 3 along Midsayap-Makar Road, on the bridge abutment of Malupog and Malitubog Bridges along Banisilan-Guiling Road, on the bridge bank protection of Arizona and Upper Panicupan Bridge along Dualing-New Panay Road, and Dualing-Baliki Silik Road in North Cotabato,” said DPWH in a statement.

Among the school buildings that suffered damage in the region are Dilangalen National High School, Southern Christian College, and Notre Dame of Midsayap College in North Cotabato, and New Isabela Elementary School, San Emmanuel National High School, and Pres Quirino National High School in Sultan Kudarat.

In the light of DPWH Secretary Mark A. Villar’s directive for immediate response, DPWH continues its efforts to coordinate with district offices on updates about infrastructure damage within their jurisdiction and conduct damage assessment on major roads and bridges, as well as public schools and buildings.

Meanwhile, the local government of Tulunan in Cotabato is expected to declare a state of calamity on Monday as it was the epicenter of the magnitude 6.3 earthquake.

In a radio interview, Tulunan Mayor Reuel Limbungan said that the devastating tremblor displaced many residents and disrupted the students’ classes in town.

The local chief executive also noted that 300 residential houses were affected by the quake and were deemed inhabitable while some classrooms were also considered unsafe to use due to cracks and damaged ceilings.

“Our students will study at the covered court since classrooms are still considered unsafe,” said Limbungan, adding that aftershocks are still being felt in the town.