MALAPATAN, SARANGANI, June 13, 2026 — Member of Parliament Abdulbasit R. Benito visited the earthquake-affected community of Barangay Sapu Masla, Malapatan, Sarangani on Saturday to personally assess the condition of families affected by the recent earthquake.
Prior to the visit, MP Benito met with Tommy J. Nawa, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE), and Quraish Langcap, Deputy Director for Other Outside Bangsamoro Communities (OOBC), who provided updates on the situation and the urgent needs of affected residents.
Accompanied by Engineer Norodin L. Zacaria and his team, MP Benito inspected damaged homes and met with community members. During the assessment, a strong aftershock struck the area, highlighting the continuing fear and trauma experienced by residents.
According to MP Benito, the situation on the ground was heartbreaking.
"Despite the extent of the damage and the urgent needs of the community, no relief assistance has reached them to date," he said.
MP Benito emphasized the need for immediate intervention, noting that affected families remain traumatized and in need of both assistance and reassurance. He added that the visit was also intended to assess possible support for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the community.
He likewise thanked Deputy Minister Nawa, Deputy Director Langcap, and Engineer Zacaria for their assistance and support during the assessment.
June 13, 2026 - BY Admin