The city government here will allocate PHP5 million in financial assistance to chosen localities in Mindanao struck by the 6.8 magnitude earthquake, an official said on Thursday.

Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia said the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) has yet to recommend the localities in Mindanao hit by earthquake that could receive the aid.

Garcia said they needed a basis before giving out the financial assistance.

“We are ready to help but they have not yet declared state calamity. We need a basis in giving out financial assistance to these LGUs (local government units) affected by the earthquake. They need to have a declaration of the state of calamity,” he told the Philippine News Agency.

Some areas hit by the tremor include the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Davao, Digos, Tagum, Panabo, Sarangani, Cotabato and Kidapawan.

But the city would want to extend the help to most badly-hit localities.

The CCDRRMO headed by Harold Alcontin is now doing an assessment which of these cities and municipalities could receive the aid.

Initially, the office listed 12 localities that could get PHP200,000 to PHP500,000 assistance from the city government. (PNA)

Photo credit: Facebook/SaranganiProvincialInformationOffice