By Prince Golez

President Rodrigo Duterte is safe after a strong earthquake rocked Davao del Sur Sunday, his spokesman said.

Duterte was in his hometown of Davao City when the magnitude 6.9 earthquake hit off Padada town.

“He is ok. He and his daughter Kitty were in their house when the quake struck,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo told reporters.

Panelo said that Duterte’s partner Honeylet Avanceña, who was on her way home when the quake happened, felt the shaking.

“She said her car was swaying. She is unhurt,” he added.

Meanwhile, Panelo said the government directed all concerned agencies to respond to the present conditions and provide immediate assistance to those in need.

“The Office of the President meanwhile requests everyone to remain calm but stay vigilant in anticipation of aftershocks. We likewise ask the public to refrain from spreading disinformation that may cause undue alarm and panic among affected communities,” he also said.