The Philippine Department of Transportation (DOTr) ensures both domestic and international travelers that all airports and seaports in Mindanao are operational following thorough inspections.

Safety checks were promptly conducted at various hubs across Mindanao after a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Davao Oriental on October 10.

In a statement, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that he had directed the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) to maintain oversight of these facilities amid potential aftershocks.

Lopez emphasized: “All ports are operational at this point in time. Service has resumed at all airports in the region, including Davao Airport.”

This declaration is in response to a direct order from Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jnr, emphasizing the need for immediate operational readiness of all airports and seaports in light of recent natural disasters.

Additionally, the Philippine Coast Guard has mobilized response teams to assist in search and rescue operations for communities impacted by the quake.

Free ride services, referred to as Love Buses, have been arranged for travelers stranded in the aftermath.

Lopez added that commuters are being helped by personnel from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in Davao to guarantee road safety and support those displaced by the disaster.

The President has also ordered the postponement of scheduled events, including the Siargao International Surfing Cup from October 23-31, until safety is assured in affected regions.