Classes, gov't work suspended in Davao City after 7.8-magnitude quake
By Ivy Tejano
THIS image from a video shows dust and debris outside a building after a powerful earthquake in General Santos City on Monday, June 8, 2026. (Ernesto Torres Jr. via AP)
DAVAO CITY — The Davao City government suspended classes on all levels and work in local and national government offices on Monday, June 8, following a strong earthquake that struck some parts of Mindanao.
The city government's advisory said the suspension, which took effect immediately, covers both public and private educational institutions.
Government offices were also ordered closed, except for agencies involved in emergency response and the delivery of essential services.
City officials likewise encouraged private offices and institutions to suspend operations to ensure the welfare and safety of their employees.
In an earthquake update issued at 9 a.m., the city activated its Emergency Operations Center and deployed emergency response teams to conduct rapid assessments and assist affected residents.
Response teams include the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Public Safety and Security Office, City Engineer’s Office, City Transport and Traffic Management Office, and Office of the City Building Official.
Authorities said there is no active tsunami threat to Davao City as of 9 a.m.
The CDRRMO continues to monitor coastal areas and coordinate with relevant government agencies in anticipation of possible aftershocks and other hazards.
Personnel from the City Social Welfare and Development Office and City Health Office have been placed on standby should relief operations become necessary.
Traffic disruptions were also reported following the earthquake.
As of 9:30 a.m., Bolton Bridge 1 southbound was temporarily closed to vehicular traffic pending structural assessment by the Department of Public Works and Highways and the City Engineer’s Office.
CTTMO personnel were deployed to manage traffic flow in the area, while motorists were advised to take alternative routes.
The CDRRMO urged motorists to exercise extreme caution when passing through Coastal Bucan Bridge after initial observations indicated the presence of cracks on the structure.
Drivers were advised to reduce speed, maintain safe distances from other vehicles, avoid stopping or parking on the bridge, and follow traffic advisories issued by authorities.
The public was encouraged to immediately report any unusual movement, widening cracks, or other structural concerns to local authorities.
"Assessment and monitoring operations remain ongoing as authorities continue to evaluate the impact of the earthquake across the city," the city government advisory said.