Soccsksargen municipalities receive P520M for earthquake reconstruction

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Sixteen municipalities and cities across Soccsksargen have been allocated P520 million in national government aid for post-earthquake recovery efforts, marking a significant step toward rebuilding communities affected by the destructive June seismic event.

The magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani province caused widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and public facilities across Region 12. The financial assistance represents the initial phase of the national government's disaster recovery program for the affected areas.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. presided over the ceremonial turnover of the funds to local government officials, underscoring the administration's commitment to supporting disaster-stricken communities. The allocation is intended to support reconstruction of critical infrastructure, restoration of public facilities, and rehabilitation of damaged residential areas.

Local government units in the region have begun assessing damage and developing reconstruction plans to guide the utilization of the assistance. The funds are expected to accelerate recovery efforts and help residents return to normalcy in the affected municipalities.