A landslide on January 18 in the gold mining province of Monkayo, Davao de Oro, Philippines, has led to a tragic loss of life and widespread displacement.
The landslide occurred during a Christian prayer gathering in a house in a remote mountain village, resulting in at least ten fatalities, including five children. Two people sustained injuries, and at least one person remains missing.
The relentless downpour, which prompted the landslide, also displaced over 36,000 people in Davao de Oro and neighboring provinces.
The Philippine Office of Civil Defense has been coordinating rescue and relief efforts in the affected areas.
The continuous rain has exacerbated the situation, suspending search and rescue operations due to safety concerns.
Monkayo Mayor, Manuel E. Zamora, recognizing the ongoing risk, has ordered a forced evacuation of residents near the landslide area.
This preventive measure aims to safeguard the community against the possibility of further land and mudslides, which remain a threat due to the ongoing heavy rains.
The disaster’s impact extends beyond the immediate loss of life. According to the latest data from the Defense Office, the intense rainfall and subsequent flooding have impacted over 187,000 individuals in four separate provinces within the Davao region.
The government continues to monitor the situation and coordinate relief efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.
