Widespread floods and landslides in southern Philippines claim 14 lives

The death toll from landslides and floods caused by torrential rain in the southern Philippines has reached 14, as reported on Saturday, February 3, 2024. The severe weather has affected parts of Mindanao, the country’s second-largest island, leading to tens of thousands seeking refuge in emergency shelters. Davao de Oro, a province known for its gold mining, has been particularly hard-hit, with 10 fatalities in recent days due to relentless rain.

Davao de Oro, a mountainous gold mining province, has been among the hardest hit, with at least 10 people succumbing to the adverse weather conditions in recent days.

Provincial information officer Fe Maestre expressed to AFP that the intensity and continuity of the rain were unprecedented. The casualties in Davao de Oro included victims from landslides in the Maragusan and Monkayo municipalities and drowning incidents in the Pantukan and Maco municipalities.

Neighboring Davao del Norte also reported tragic incidents, including a landslide in Kapalong municipality that buried four people inside a house, according to rescue officer Jaiasent Cabactulan. Meanwhile, Agusan del Sur province has faced widespread flooding, affecting villages and agricultural land.

Provincial disaster agency spokesman Alexis Cabardo indicated on local radio that it might take days for the floodwaters to recede, as water continues to flow down from Davao de Oro.

References:

¹ Death Toll From Philippine Landslides, Floods Rises To 14 – AFP – February 3, 2024

Featured image credit: PDRRMO Davao del Norte Drone Team