The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12) has warned residents to stay away from newly exposed coastal areas in Glan, Sarangani following a coastal uplift triggered by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck the province on June 8.
In an advisory issued on June 16, DENR-12 said the earthquake caused a significant vertical rise along portions of the coastline, permanently altering the shoreline and exposing coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other marine habitats that had long remained underwater.
The agency explained that coastal uplift occurs when tectonic movements during a strong earthquake raise sections of land above sea level. Experts are continuing to assess the extent of the environmental changes and their impact on local ecosystems.
Villar calls for action beyond assessment
Former senator Cynthia Villar, who previously chaired the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, emphasized the need for scientific findings to translate into concrete environmental action.
“When the ground rose two meters and pushed the sea back 200 meters due to the recent 7.8 earthquake, it didn't just reshape a coastline, it exposed coral reefs and seagrass beds that took centuries to grow. The DENR is going to make a scientific assessment. Let us make sure it leads to action, not just a report,” Villar said.
She added that the incident in Glan should serve as a warning about the vulnerability of coastal ecosystems and the need for stronger environmental protection measures.
Public urged to avoid exposed coastal zones
Meanwhile, the DENR-12 advised residents living near the newly extended shoreline to vacate the area and keep a safe distance from exposed zones due to potential biological and public health hazards.
Authorities warned the public not to handle, collect, clear, or salvage dead marine organisms, including reef fishes, eels, clams, and shells stranded across exposed benthic areas. The agency said disturbing the decaying marine biomass could pose risks of injury and biological contamination.
DENR-12 stressed that only the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) are authorized to conduct biohazard mitigation and sanitation operations. Residents were advised to stay away from affected intertidal areas until official clearing activities begin.
