Landslide in Davao de Oro Claims 98 Lives, Eight Still Missing

MACO, DAVAO DE ORO — The tragic landslide that struck Barangay Masara in Maco, Davao de Oro, has now claimed 98 lives, with eight individuals still unaccounted for, according to the latest updates from local authorities.

According to Philippines News Agency, the death toll has risen as search and retrieval efforts persist, following the disaster that occurred on the evening of February 6. The ongoing operations have been focused on locating and recovering victims buried under the landslide debris.

During a flag-raising ceremony at the provincial capitol grounds, Governor Dorothy Gonzaga expressed her gratitude to the responders and rescuers from various government agencies who have been tirelessly working at the scene since the incident. “We thank you for being a hero to our brothers and sisters who were affected by the landslide. I thank everyone who gave their time, effort, and even put their lives at risk just to help the victims,” Gonzaga remarked, acknowledging the sacrifices and efforts of those involved in the rescue and recovery operations.

The governor also mentioned that families still searching for missing loved ones could seek assistance through the Management of the Dead and the Missing, which is operating from the incident command post established in Maco to coordinate the response efforts.