The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced that it will remain on heightened alert following a significant 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao earlier this week. The earthquake, which occurred at 7:37 a.m. southwest of Maasim, Sarangani, led to initial tsunami warnings that were later lifted by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). Despite the cancellation of tsunami warnings, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. warned of potential aftershocks and stated that police personnel would continue to monitor evacuation centers and coastal security zones. Over 2,000 officers have been deployed to assist with evacuation efforts and relief operations, currently monitoring more than 2,400 individuals in 545 evacuation centers. Nartatez emphasized the need for police units to ensure safety, order, and coordination with relief agencies, and instructed them to act decisively in the event of further evacuations.