Negros Occidental mobilizes rescue teams to Cebu after quake

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Some local government units in Negros Occidental have begun sending rescue teams to assist those affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that hit northern Cebu on Sept. 30.

The One Negros Response Team headed to Cebu on Friday to provide aid, focusing on the hardest-hit areas like Bogo City.

In line with Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson’s directive, the team is fully equipped, with the provincial government offering logistical support to ensure timely and effective relief efforts.

This includes two water tankers, two mobile water filtration units, an ambulance, a rescue truck, two utility vehicles, and other essential resources for the operation.

Talisay City’s search-and-rescue team was the first to arrive in Cebu on Thursday.

The Cadiz City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office has also deployed a response team bringing the city’s water purifier to help provide safe and potable water to affected communities.

“More than just a necessity, water is life and hope,” the local rescue team said.

“Through this mission, Cadiz City extends not only assistance, but also the true spirit of bayanihan, reminding our brothers and sisters in Cebu that they are not alone,” it added.

Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. expressed full support for this mission of service and solidarity.

“Their presence serves as a reminder that every effort, no matter how small, is fueled by unity, compassion, and the will to serve,” he said.

“To the people of Bogo and northern Cebu, our thoughts and prayers are with you; may this humble act of solidarity bring comfort and hope as you rebuild and recover; your resilience inspires us, and your healing is our prayer,” the mayor said.

San Carlos Mayor Rene Gustilo also sent a water tanker with three crew on board for a humanitarian mission.

The crew is part of the Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue Team and Firefighting Team of the San Carlos City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

“Let us pray for their safety as they take part in the early recovery efforts of those Cebuanos affected by the devastating tremor,” the city government said.

Eight rescuers from Silay City, along with a mobile water treatment and purifier system, were also deployed to support the mass production of safe drinking water for affected communities.

This deployment aims to support disaster response operations in Bogo City and nearby areas.

The team will assist in search, rescue and relief efforts for communities most affected by the disaster.

The Silay City government reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation and timely assistance, standing in solidarity with neighboring communities in times of crisis.

Other rescue teams from Sipalay City, Sagay City and other LGUs remain on standby, awaiting deployment orders.

Only fully trained and equipped rescuers were deployed, as they are ready for complex rescue operations.