President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered concerned government agencies to ensure the safety and welfare of patients in hospitals affected by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao on Monday.

At a Palace press briefing on Tuesday, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Marcos, during a situation briefing in Malacañang, underscored the need to immediately assess affected hospitals and identify safe areas where patients can be relocated if necessary.

“Ipinag-utos ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na siguraduhin ang kapakanan ng mga pasyente sa mga ospital na naapektuhan ng lindol kahapon sa Mindanao,” Castro said.

“Partikular na inutusan ng Pangulo ang DOH (Department of Health) – sa pangunguna ni Secretary Ted Herbosa – at ang DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) – sa pangunguna ni Secretary Vince Dizon – na magsagawa ng assessment sa lalong madaling panahon,” she added.

According to Castro, Marcos also instructed Energy Secretary, Sharon Garin, to prioritize restoring electricity supply to hospitals.

“Ayon sa Pangulo, higit na nangangailangan ng agarang atensyon ang mga pasyente sa mga lugar na niyanig ng malakas na lindol,” said Castro.

During the briefing, Marcos also spoke via Zoom with General Santos City Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao to discuss the situation and their immediate needs.

“Ayon sa Pangulo, gagawin ng pamahalaan ang lahat ng makakaya nito upang maibigay ang kaukulang tulong sa mga apektadong komunidad,” Castro said.

Meanwhile, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian reported to the President that relief operations are ongoing and that the needs of affected residents are being addressed.

The DSWD is working closely with the Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Coast Guard to airlift relief supplies to areas that remain inaccessible by land, according to Castro.

In addition, the DOH has also deployed sufficient medical assistance and supplies for earthquake victims, while the Department of Education has been coordinating with local government units to ensure the safety and welfare of students in affected schools.

Information and Communications Technology Secretary Henry Aguda, meanwhile, reported that connectivity in affected areas remains stable.

The DOE likewise confirmed that power supply has already been restored in many parts of Mindanao, while the DPWH is working to reopen impassable roads.

Castro noted that the Bucana Bridge in Davao City remains safe and passable, allowing the continued transport of relief goods and emergency assistance. Presidential News Desk