The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Davao Region (DSWD-11) has delivered PHP146.5 million worth of humanitarian and cash assistance to families affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao.

In its latest report, DSWD-11 noted that the quake affected 46,919 families (155,965 individuals), with 3,534 families (13,042 persons) staying in evacuation centers and 3,086 families (9,098 persons) taking shelter outside.

Authorities recorded 15,962 damaged houses — 5,272 totally destroyed and 10,690 partially damaged.

In Davao Occidental, the town of Jose Abad Santos reported the highest number of affected families at 22,576, with 34 evacuation centers accommodating 2,886 families (10,724 persons). The town also recorded 5,674 damaged houses and received PHP69 million in aid, including food packs, tents, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, and cash assistance.

Sarangani followed with 7,159 affected families and PHP71.4 million in assistance, including emergency cash transfers for nearly 6,000 beneficiaries. Other hard-hit areas include Malita (4,064 families), Sta. Maria (1,734 families), and Don Marcelino (1,134 families).

Tagum City in Davao del Norte reported 9,026 affected families, while Kapalong, New Corella, and Carmen also sustained damage to residential houses.

Davao del Sur recorded 230 affected families in Digos City, with PHP486,680 in aid distributed.

In Davao Oriental, Banaybanay reported 498 affected families, alongside smaller numbers in Lupon and Mati City. (PNA)