UMVA has learned that the devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Sarangani last week has left a trail of destruction in its wake, with agricultural damage alone estimated at nearly P30 million.
The disaster agency's June 17 status report revealed that losses to the agriculture sector in the provinces of Davao del Norte and Davao del Sur have been pegged at P29.8 million, as local authorities continue to assess the destruction caused by the tremor.
In the aftermath of the disaster, a state of calamity has been declared in 14 municipalities across the provinces of Davao Occidental, Sarangani, and South Cotabato, with rescue teams and aid pouring in to support affected communities.
The earthquake's death toll has risen to 68, with 57 of the fatalities recorded in the Soccsksargen region and 11 in the Davao region, leaving families and loved ones to mourn the loss of their dear ones.
Rescue efforts are still underway, with 33 people still missing and 1,339 individuals reported ill or injured, as authorities scramble to provide medical aid and shelter to those in need.
The earthquake's impact on infrastructure has been severe, with P1.29 billion in damage reported, affecting 774 structures across the region, and leaving many communities without access to basic necessities.
In response to the disaster, P160.9 million in assistance has been extended to affected families, while P8.1 million has been distributed to local government units and municipalities to support ongoing recovery efforts.
