Dot Lists Tourist Sites Affected by Mindanao Quake, Urges Travelers to Check Updates

Lake Holon and other tourism activities remain suspended as safety inspections continue after the June 8 earthquake.

The Department of Tourism has advised travelers to monitor official advisories and coordinate with hotels, tour operators, and local government units before proceeding with travel plans in areas affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8.

The advisory comes as authorities continue to assess damage to tourism sites, accommodations, roads, and community areas across parts of Soccsksargen and Davao Region.

In Soccsksargen, the DOT reported ground deformation in Barangay Ladol, Alabel, Sarangani. Initial reports indicated that several cottages at Ladol Beach Resort collapsed due to ground movement.

A landslide was also reported within Mt. Melibengoy near Lake Holon in the Municipality of T’boli, South Cotabato. Authorities immediately carried out precautionary measures, including rapid field validation and coordination with relevant agencies to assess risks and ensure public safety.

The DOT said all tourists in the area were safely escorted down the mountain.

As part of emergency measures, Lake Holon and all related tourist activities within T’boli, South Cotabato have been temporarily closed while hazard and safety assessments are ongoing.

Several accommodation establishments in General Santos City also reportedly sustained varying degrees of damage, including Hotel San Marco, Florotel II Hotel, Jeamco Royal Hotel, Grand Summit Hotel, Sydney Hotel, and Columbus Plaza Hotel.

Tourism-related activities in Davao Region have also been suspended, postponed, or cancelled as part of precautionary measures and continuing safety assessments.

These include Duaw Dabaw: Reyna ng Davao 2026 in Davao City, eco parks, coastal tourism and water activities in Davao Oriental, and the Masbol Festival in Sarangani, Davao Occidental.

The DOT said its regional offices in Mindanao are closely monitoring affected tourism workers, visitors, and businesses.

Travelers were reminded to avoid spreading unverified information and to rely only on official government advisories for guidance.

The magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck offshore Sarangani province on June 8. It prompted tsunami warnings and was felt across several regions in Mindanao. According to reports citing disaster authorities, at least 37 people were confirmed dead, hundreds were injured, and thousands were displaced following the quake.

Authorities continue to warn residents and travelers about possible aftershocks, structural damage, landslides, and unsafe areas while inspections remain underway.

Travelers with plans in affected parts of Mindanao should check official updates first, confirm the status of hotels and tourism sites, and prioritize safety while assessments continue.