Cebu lawmaker slams Capitol’s ‘slow, uncoordinated’ quake response

Local

NEARLY a week after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck Bogo City and surrounding towns, Provincial Board Member Celestino “Tining” Martinez III sharply criticized the Cebu Provincial Government for what he described as a slow and uncoordinated response.

During a regular session of the provincial board on Monday, Oct. 6, Martinez said the earthquake struck his hometown and district with sudden force, leaving residents unprepared.

“An earthquake gives us no warning. It strikes like a thief in the night, sudden, violent, and without mercy,” he said, noting that many families were asleep or sharing dinner when the disaster hit.

Martinez highlighted the human toll of the quake, reporting that Bogo City lost 33 lives and dozens were injured.

He acknowledged the efforts of first responders, medical teams, and volunteers who immediately rushed to assist affected families.

However, he stressed that local government units rely heavily on provincial support for essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine.

The board member also voiced concern over the lack of communication and coordination from the provincial government.

He said claims circulating online that relief goods had already been distributed directly from the province were inaccurate, noting that city officials had to verify aid received in barangays.

“Our city lies in ruins. Municipalities are destroyed. We need proper coordination on the ground so our efforts do not go to waste or overlap,” Martinez said.

His concerns reflect the frustrations expressed by his sister, Bogo City Mayor Mayel Martinez, who described provincial relief operations as “chaotic” and “disorganized.”

“We’ve been through three years of COVID and many typhoons in the past. Sa tanan response efforts nato, kani ang pinaka-labad so far,” she said in a Facebook post over the weekend.

On Monday morning, hours before the session, Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting local units.

“In the wake of the earthquake, our priority remains clear: to serve the people with compassion, speed, and unity,” she said.

The governor emphasized the importance of collaboration and feedback, noting that the public should provide guidance directly rather than airing concerns on social media.

She added that such input helps the provincial government improve and respond more effectively to the needs of affected communities.

As recovery efforts continue, officials stressed the need for stronger coordination, faster delivery of relief, and transparent communication to ensure residents can rebuild their homes and lives safely.(MyTVCebu)