Sagay City extended critical assistance to four municipalities in northern Cebu including Borbon, San Remigio, Bogo, and Tabuelan, as part of the joint One Negros Response Team deployment to earthquake-affected areas.
Under the direction of Mayor Leo Rafael M. Cueva, Sagay’s team provided both safe drinking water and emergency shelter materials, ensuring immediate relief to displaced residents and communities struggling with disrupted water access, a press release from Sagay City government said Tuesday, Oct. 7.
A team led by Engr. Joy Robert Alipalo operated the Aqua Cube Water Purification System in Borbon, delivering purified water to households and evacuation sites.
The Sagay contingent also turned over tarpaulins to San Remigio Mayor Mariano Martinez to serve as temporary shelters for affected families.
Meanwhile, the city’s relief distribution teams, headed by Wally Afuang and Shellamay Santillan, joined the coordinated provincial operations that reached Bogo City and Tabuelan, working alongside responders from Silay, Sipalay, San Carlos, and Toboso.
Cueva lauded the volunteers and responders, saying Sagay’s contribution reflects the city’s deep sense of solidarity.
“When our neighbors are in need, we do not hesitate to respond,” he said, adding “Sagay’s support to the people of Cebu shows that compassion and cooperation go beyond geographical boundaries.”
The Sagay team also participated in proper demobilization procedures at the Incident Command Post (ICP) before returning home, ensuring accountability and coordination with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and Governor Bong Lacson’s directive.
The multi-agency operation deployed water tankers, mobile filtration units, an ambulance, and rescue vehicles across affected towns, reinforcing inter-provincial coordination in disaster response.
Cueva said Sagay will remain ready to assist in future emergencies, emphasizing that disaster resilience depends not only on preparation but also on compassion in action.
“Every effort to help rebuild lives is an investment in humanity. We are one with the people of Cebu in their recovery,” he added.*