Landslide death toll climbs to 98 in Philippines

The death toll from a landslide in the mining town of Davao de Oro province in the southern Philippines has risen to 98, with nine others still missing. The tragic event was caused by rocks, soil, and debris sliding from the mountainside after days of heavy rain. The landslide buried houses, vehicles, and even two buses, resulting in the deaths of miners who were on their way to and from a nearby mining firm in Maco town. The incident also left 32 people injured.

The Maco Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported the increasing death toll and ongoing search operations on Saturday. The World Risk Index 2022 has ranked the Philippines as the most disaster-prone country in the world, with the archipelago frequently experiencing powerful typhoons, flash floods, landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

This devastating landslide serves as a tragic reminder of the constant threat of natural disasters in the Philippines, highlighting the urgent need for robust disaster prevention and management efforts in the country.

As rescuers continue their search for the missing individuals, the community and authorities are coming together to support the affected families and work towards mitigating the impact of such calamities in the future. It is a somber moment for the nation as it grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event and the ongoing challenges posed by its vulnerability to natural disasters.

The Philippines, with its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich biodiversity, remains resilient in the face of adversity, but the toll of this landslide serves as a stark reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and risk reduction measures in safeguarding lives and livelihoods in the region.