The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on the local chief executives (LCEs) to immediately put in place adequate earthquake and tsunami preparedness measures following the recent strong earthquakes that struck Northern Cebu and Eastern Mindanao.

In a statement, the DILG asserted that proactive leadership and community readiness are vital to protect lives and infrastructure, stressing that “emergency protocols, evacuation plans and response systems must be fully operational, regularly updated, and clearly communicated to the public.’’

Based on the recommendations of the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST–Phivolcs), the DILG reiterated that residents in coastal areas must remain alert to natural tsunami warning signs such as strong ground shaking, sudden sea level changes, or an unusual ocean roar, and immediately evacuate to higher ground without waiting for official advisories.

“LGUs must implement minimum critical actions outlined in the L!STONG Pamayanan Tsunami Toolkit. For distant tsunamis, preemptive evacuation in coastal and low-lying areas must be conducted. For local tsunamis, immediate forced evacuation must be enforced. In both cases, evacuees must stay in designated centers until the tsunami warning is lifted,’’ the DILG said.

For earthquake preparedness, the DILG reminded communities to expect aftershocks and to practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold” protocol. 

“LGUs must deploy engineering teams to inspect critical infrastructure and prohibit the reoccupation of damaged structures unless declared safe,’’ it added.

The DILG also reminded the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to rely solely on official updates from DOST–Phivolcs, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and local DRRM offices.

“LGUs are directed to update disaster plans, activate Emergency Operations Centers and Incident Management Teams, and ensure the readiness of evacuation centers. Structural assessments of public and private buildings must be prioritized, especially in quake-affected areas,’’ the DILG noted.

In line with Operation L!STO protocols, the DILG pointed out that the LGUs must conduct community education activities, house-to-house information campaigns, and regular preparedness drills.

“Accurate population data must guide evacuation planning, while food, medical supplies, and rescue equipment must be prepositioned,’’ the DILG stressed.

The DILG also stated that coordination with regional and provincial DRRMCs, DOST-Phivolcs and other concerned agencies is essential for technical support and risk assessments. 

“LGUs must also ensure clear evacuation routes, visible signage, designated safe zones, and trained response teams ready for rapid deployment.