Quake-affected residents staying at a temporary shelter in this town expressed gratitude for the visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday, saying his presence gave them renewed hope.

Evacuee Christine Benaning shared that upon hearing about the President’s visit, residents from far-flung areas rushed to the municipal hall.

“Thank you so much for personally visiting us, Mr. President. You showed us care and concern,” she said. Maxilino Bermudez Jr., from Barangay Jovellar, also thanked Marcos for personally assessing their situation, adding, “I hope you can help us get through this. Thank you for your visit and help.”

Accompanied by key government officials, Marcos conducted an on-site inspection of heavily damaged facilities in Manay — the earthquake’s epicenter — including the Davao Oriental Provincial Hospital – Manay District and Manay National High School.

The President then proceeded to the Municipality of Tarragona to inspect the Regional Evacuation Center, which remains unusable due to severe structural damage. He also visited temporary tents set up in front of the Tarragona Municipal Hall, where he interacted with evacuees.

Silvestra Matayam, one of the evacuees, whose home sustained major damage, said: “I thank the President for coming here. I hope he will help us rebuild our home.”

Leonita Sumarago, a barangay health worker, shared the trauma caused by the Magnitude 7.6 quake, but added, “With the President’s visit, we know he will help us.”

During the situational briefing, Marcos emphasized the need to build shelters for evacuees as rehabilitation efforts begin. “[We need to provide] stronger, more comfortable shelters that can last—because rehabilitation and rebuilding will take time. We have to find a place where they can be well situated,” Marcos said. (PNA)