Manila, June 9 -- To ensure rapid response following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck the province of Sarangani on June 8, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) conducted a multi-modal relief operation together with other national agencies to reach isolated towns and assist affected families and individuals.

Acting on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to expedite government assistance, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian continued to monitor and visit the affected areas in Sarangani on Tuesday, together with Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon.

"The DSWD stands committed, ready kami tumulong, ready kami rumesponde. ...