Cebuanos Thank South Cotabato for Swift Aid After 6.9-Magnitude Earthquake

The swift action of the Provincial Government of South Cotabato in responding to the call for help from the Province of Cebu after the massive 6.9-magnitude earthquake has earned widespread praise from netizens, South Cotabateños, and Cebuanos alike.

Despite being located hundreds of kilometers away in Mindanao, South Cotabato was among the first local government units outside Cebu to deliver direct assistance to earthquake victims.

In less than 24 hours after the devastating quake struck, a medical team from South Cotabato — personally led by Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. — arrived in Cebu to provide immediate medical aid to affected communities. The contingent brought with them medicines, relief packs, and other essential supplies to support ongoing relief and recovery operations.

Governor Tamayo, who also serves as President of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP), highlighted the importance of unity and compassion among provinces during times of calamity.

“When our fellow Filipinos are in need, it is our duty to extend help without hesitation. The people of South Cotabato are always ready to serve,” Tamayo said.

Alongside the medical team, a separate group from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) was also dispatched to Cebu to assist in relief operations, bringing with them medicines, hygiene kits, and food packs contributed by the people of South Cotabato.

In a Facebook post, Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro expressed her gratitude to Governor Tamayo and the people of South Cotabato, calling them “one of my first responders,” recognizing the generosity, compassion, and readiness to help despite the long distance.

Online, hundreds of Cebuanos and South Cotabateños commended the swift coordination and leadership shown by Governor Tamayo, describing South Cotabato’s effort as a model of genuine public service and bayanihan.

Residents from both provinces also expressed appreciation for the province’s quick response.

“As a Cebuano, I am touched by how quickly South Cotabato responded. It shows that unity and kindness still prevail,” one netizen wrote. Another South Cotabateño commented, “We are proud to see our province extending help wherever it is needed. This is what Tama at Maayos na Serbisyo truly means.”