Search-and-rescue operations for 36 missing individuals in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, have yielded no signs of life following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Maasim, Sarangani, last week. According to Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, search teams have faced significant terrain challenges, forcing the redirection of resources to other affected areas as the regional death toll climbs to 65.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reports that 14 cities or municipalities have been placed under a state of calamity, with the earthquake impacting 512 barangays across the Zamboanga Peninsula, Davao, Soccsksargen, and the Bangsamoro region.
Current Status of Rescue Efforts
Authorities are struggling to reach victims trapped by massive landslides in Davao Occidental. Assistant Secretary Alejandro confirmed that search operations in one specific area were suspended because the mountain had collapsed, rendering heavy equipment unable to access the site. Consequently, rescue teams have been redeployed to other locations where their intervention is deemed more viable.
The shift in resource allocation reflects a common but difficult reality in post-seismic disaster management: when geography prevents access to high-risk zones, agencies must prioritize areas where equipment can effectively operate. The scale of the damage—now estimated at P1.13 billion—suggests that the recovery process will likely remain a long-term logistical challenge for the government.
Impact on Population and Infrastructure
The earthquake has affected 736,386 individuals, or 176,186 families, according to the latest NDRRMC situational report. While 65 deaths have been confirmed—57 in Soccsksargen and eight in the Davao Region—thousands remain displaced. As of Monday, June 15, 2026, 3,180 families are currently seeking shelter in 37 evacuation centers.
Physical infrastructure has sustained significant damage, with 728 vital structures affected. NDRRMC data indicates that 57,252 houses were impacted by the magnitude 7.8 jolt, of which 10,023 were completely destroyed and 47,229 were partially damaged. The Department of Social Welfare and Development has responded by providing P137,369,496.39 in aid to assist the affected residents.
Future Recovery Scenarios
Given the current state of infrastructure and the ongoing search for the 36 missing persons, the recovery phase may involve long-term rehousing efforts for the thousands whose homes were destroyed. The high number of damaged structures suggests that local governments may need to sustain state of calamity declarations to expedite the release of emergency funds. Additionally, the continued difficulty in accessing landslide-stricken areas could lead to a shift in focus from active search-and-rescue to recovery and site stabilization in the coming weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people are currently missing?
There are 36 individuals reported missing, all of whom are believed to be victims of landslides in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental.
What is the total death toll from the earthquake?
The NDRRMC has confirmed 65 deaths, with 57 in the Soccsksargen region and eight in the Davao Region.
How much has the government provided in aid so far?
The Department of Social Welfare and Development has provided P137,369,496.39 in assistance to those affected by the calamity.
How will the destruction of over 10,000 homes influence the pace of local recovery efforts in the affected regions?
