Jose Abad Santos (JAS), Davao Occidental continues to grapple with the aftermath of a magnitude 7.8 earthquake as local officials and partner agencies ramp up relief efforts for thousands of affected residents across the municipality.
Scope of the Disaster
According to the latest consolidated report from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) as of June 21, 2026, the earthquake impacted 22,576 families. Of these, 4,333 households remain in evacuation sites and temporary shelters.
The disaster has resulted in 40 injured individuals, 13 missing persons, and seven fatalities. Infrastructure damage includes 2,648 houses completely destroyed and 4,052 houses with partial damage.
Damage to Public Facilities
Government facilities have also suffered significant damage. The report lists 39 schools with 405 classrooms affected, along with 16 barangay halls, eight barangay gymnasiums, 13 health facilities, and 18 other public structures.
Airlift Request for Relief Goods
On the 15th day of earthquake response operations, JAS Mayor Jason John Joyce requested an airlift operation to deliver additional relief goods to residents in San Isidro, Quiapo, Molmol, and upland sitios of Kalbay, including Kidaman, Makina, and nearby areas.
Mayor Joyce stated that the request is being coordinated with the provincial government. If approved, helicopters will transport relief goods equivalent to 10 kilograms per family, totaling 21,600 kilograms of assistance or 864 sacks weighing 25 kilograms each.
“The request is being coordinated with the provincial government, and we are hoping for its approval as we continue assisting our affected communities,” Joyce said.
Call for Support
The mayor also appealed for continued prayers and support as the municipality works with government agencies, private groups, organizations, and volunteers to help affected residents recover from the disaster. JOHN ALADAD/SPAMST, SUNSTAR INTERN
