Surigao City
February 12, 2017

On the aftermath of the 6.7 magnitude earthquake that devastated Surigao City, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte personally visited the area and spoke before the Surigaonons, sharing his deep sentiments regarding the tragedy.

”…Naa sa Bibliya, na ang tanang panghitabo diri sa kalibutan naa gyuy panahon… panahon sa kasadya, birthday, selebrasyon, araw… apan naa gyapon tay panahon sa kaguol….” (There is a time for everything that happens in this world, time for happiness, birthday, celebration but there’s also a time for worries), President Duterte said in his message.

“Naa koy buhiang kwarta gamay, sustehan gyud to nako ‘tung mga nawad an ug panginabuhi,” (I will release a small amount of money and provide for those who lost their source of living), he added.

The government extended its immediate help through the leadership of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) headed by Secretary Judy Taguiwalo during the ceremonial distribution of family packs and burial assistance to the earthquake victims.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) reported six (6) people dead and more than 100 injured.

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