Davao region logs 7 deaths in rain-induced landslides

RB Bautista

Seven people were confirmed dead after two separate rain-induced landslides struck Monkayo, Davao de Oro and Mati, Davao Oriental, brought about by the effects of a shear line on Friday, February 20.

In a Facebook post, the Monkayo local government unit (LGU) reported that a father and his two sons in Barangay Rizal were among those who died in the incident on Thursday, February 19, at 11:40 PM.

“Two victims were first recovered early this morning, and another body has also been retrieved. The Monkayo LGU expressed deep condolences and assured continued assistance and support for the affected families,” the LGU said in the post.

Following the tragedy in Davao de Oro, a separate landslide also hit Mati, Davao Oriental, where authorities confirmed the deaths of a family of four in Upper Salazar, Barangay Central, after their house was buried by the landslide.

“The Provincial Government expressed deep sorrow and stood in solidarity with the family and residents of Upper Salazar, City of Mati, Davao Oriental following the tragic landslide that claimed the lives of four household members after their home was struck by soil debris,” the Davao Oriental LGU stated in the Facebook post.

The post added that the provincial government would provide financial assistance of ₱40,000 to the bereaved family to help them recover from the tragedy.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued an orange rainfall warning for Agusan del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, and Surigao del Sur, highlighting the risk of floods in low-lying areas and landslides in mountainous regions.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) also urged residents of the said provinces to remain vigilant and follow official advisories as heavy rains, floods, and landslides remain a threat.