08/06/2026
Task Force Children of the Storm stands in solidarity with our fellow Filipinos, offering our prayers for the safety, strength, and swift recovery of all those affected by the recent Magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Southern Mindanao, including the Davao Region, CARAGA, and SOCCSKSARGEN.
In the wake of this disaster, we urge everyone to prioritize the welfare of their families, with a special focus on the needs of our children. Please observe the following post-earthquake safety protocols:
Be Prepared for Aftershocks: Expect recurring tremors. Continue to practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" whenever you feel the ground shake. Move to a safe, open area if you are currently inside a structure that appears unstable.
Prioritize Structural Integrity: Do not enter buildings or homes that have sustained visible damage. Even if a structure appears intact, wait for official inspection and clearance from local authorities before returning.
Check for Hazards: Carefully inspect your surroundings for damaged electrical wiring, gas leaks, or water pipe damage. If you smell gas, open windows, turn off the main valve, evacuate the area immediately, and report it to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) or local disaster office.
Exercise Caution Outdoors: Avoid areas with debris, broken glass, or downed power lines. Stay away from cliffs, slopes, or areas prone to landslides, especially if the ground has been weakened.
Stay Informed: Monitor official updates via the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-PHIVOLCS, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), or your local governmentβs official social media pages and radio broadcasts.
Communicate Wisely: Use SMS or social media for updates to save bandwidth and keep phone lines clear for emergency responders.
Children are often the most vulnerable during and after a disaster. Please keep these guidelines in mind to help them cope:
Provide Reassurance and Presence: Offer comfort through physical affection and your steady presence. Let them know they are safe and that you have an emergency plan in place.
Validate Their Emotions: It is normal for children to feel afraid or anxious. Listen to their concerns without judgment and answer their questions honestly using age-appropriate language.
Restore Routine: As soon as it is safe, try to resume normal daily activities, such as regular meal times or bedtime rituals. Structure provides children with a sense of security and normalcy.
Limit Media Exposure: Protect children from graphic news coverage of the earthquake, which can heighten their fears and trauma.
Encourage Expression: Allow children to process their emotions through creative outlets like drawing, storytelling, or play.
In times of crisis, our unity is our greatest strength. Stay alert, stay safe, and let us continue to look out for one another, especially the most vulnerable among us.
Sources:
https://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph
https://ndrrmc.gov.ph
https://www.unicef.org/parenting/emergencies/earthquake-safety-information
https://www.rafi.org.ph
https://www.globe.com.ph
https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes