7 dead in Davao de Oro landslide

7 dead in Davao de Oro landslide

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Amid incessant rains, at least seven died, two were injured and 10 others were reported missing yesterday in a landslide that devastated a mining area in the town of Monkayo, Davao de Oro.

Five of the confirmed dead were children. Authorities ordered the suspension of search and rescue operations due to threat of another landslide.

Davao region has been experiencing continuous rains because of what weather authorities call shear lines and easterlies, which submerged a vast area in the region in floodwaters as early as Monday.

Records show the incessant raining has affected at least 45,000 families.

Several towns in Davao Oriental, including the capital town of Mati City have also been under water for days and residents have been advised to seek refuge at evacuation centers.

The towns of Banganga, Cateel, Governor Generoso, Caraga, San Isidro and Tibanban are among those affected in Davao Oriental.

In Davao del Norte, severely affected are Tagum and Panabo cities, and the town of Carmen.

Several bridges in Davao de Oro were rendered impassable.