QUEZON CITY -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) immediately activated the Quick Response Teams (QRT) of DSWD Field Office V after a magnitude 6.0 earthquake jolted some areas in Masbate, at around 2 AM on Thursday, February 16, 2023.

Likewise, the DSWD promptly coordinated with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and concerned local government units (LGUs) for the conduct of rapid damage assessment on areas affected by the quake. Upon assessment, hairline cracks were noticed, but no major damage was reported. Furthermore, there are no reported casualties, and roads and bridges in Masbate are still passable.

Meanwhile, government offices and classes, both public and private at all levels, are both suspended in Masbate City. However, the DSWD Field Office V continues its operation to provide immediate response to the residents of the Bicol Region.

The DSWD assured residents of affected areas that food and non-food items are available and sufficient for resource augmentation as the need arises. As of press time, the DSWD Field Office V has Php 5 million worth of standby funds, more than 28,000 family food packs (FFPs), and 51,540 non-food items (NFIs) prepositioned in the different warehouses in the region.

The Department advised the people to be cautious and alert of the possible aftershocks in the area and nearby localities. (DSWD)