Davao de Oro and its surrounding regions are currently facing a dire situation as over 72,000 families endure the devastating effects of extensive flooding and landslides. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) of Region 11 has disclosed initial figures indicating the widespread impact of the natural disaster, which has also led to five fatalities and seven injuries among the residents of Davao de Oro, according to a report from GMA Regional TV One Mindanao by Jandi Esteban.
Compounding the tragedy, two individuals from Caraga, Davao Oriental, have been reported missing. The severe weather conditions, prompted by a low-pressure area, have led to catastrophic outcomes, including submerged roads, destroyed homes, and demolished bridges, leaving hundreds isolated as major highways have become impassable.
In Mati City’s Barangay Tagabakid, for instance, a significant portion of the road has collapsed, severely affecting the local community and prompting the deployment of heavy equipment for clearing operations. Amidst these harrowing circumstances, residents, like Carlota Mike from Barangay Mayo, face the heartbreaking reality of losing their homes and struggling to find safe shelter for their families. Similarly, Ranel Pacio from Barangay Tagabakid mourns the loss of his home to the relentless landslides.
In response to the crisis, the local government of Davao City, along with the Philippine Air Force (PAF), has initiated efforts to deliver relief goods to those cut off by the disaster. As rescue and relief operations continue, the true scale of the devastation is still being assessed by Davao Oriental local officials.
The situation remains critical in several areas, with residents braving the floods to reach evacuation centers, senior citizens and children being rescued by boats, and motorists stranded on highways. The floods have also caused significant traffic disruptions in Bunawan, Davao City, and swamped numerous villages in the Buhangin District, though the waters have since receded in these areas. The municipality of Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, is actively assisting its residents, while the town of Monkayo continues to grapple with persistent flooding, leaving many houses and rice fields underwater and some areas without electricity.