08/06/2026
FIRST DAY SHOCK
Batang KN Face First-Day Quake with Resilience
What was supposed to be the much-anticipated opening of classes for School Year 2026–2027 at Koronadal National Comprehensive High School quickly turned into a test of preparedness and resilience after a powerful earthquake struck just as students and teachers were beginning their first day of classes.
According to Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake occurred at 7:36 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, offshore near Sarangani. The tremor was felt strongly across parts of Mindanao, including Koronadal City.
The earthquake struck only moments after the school's flag ceremony, as classes were just getting underway. In response, students, teachers, and school personnel immediately carried out the "Duck, Cover, and Hold" protocol before proceeding calmly to designated evacuation areas.
Following the incident, KNCHS suspended classes to ensure the safety of everyone on campus and to allow authorities to conduct necessary assessments.
Despite the intensity of the quake and the series of aftershocks that followed, no serious injuries were reported. However, several individuals experienced panic attacks, hyperventilation, and temporary loss of consciousness, prompting immediate medical attention from emergency responders.
“Nag-improve ang response ng SDRRM at ang mga estudyante ay very active at hindi sila nagpapanic,” said Jimcee Kyle O. Labso, Safety Officer I and Emergency Medical Technician.
Labso also commended the effectiveness of the treatment areas established for affected individuals and the organized evacuation areas that helped ensure the safety and well-being of students and personnel during the emergency.
Meanwhile, the school administrators, led by Ma. Fe Lita S. Yparraguirre, are taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of students and teachers through thorough inspections and evaluations of school buildings and facilities.
The incident served as a powerful reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness in schools. The swift response of the School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (SDRRM) team, combined with the discipline and cooperation shown by students and staff, demonstrated the resilience and readiness of the KNCHS community.
For Batang KN, the first day of School Year 2026–2027 became more than just the opening of classes—it became a testament to the value of preparedness and the strength of a community working together in times of crisis.
