DAVAO DE ORO - The death toll from a massive landslide in Barangay Masara, Maco town, has risen to 96, as reported by the municipal government late Friday. The disaster has left at least 18 individuals still unaccounted for.
According to Philippines News Agency, the community is in mourning as the search for those missing continues. In a show of solidarity and hope, leaders from various religious groups and Indigenous People's organizations convened at the site of the tragedy, known as 'ground zero,' to offer prayers for the missing victims on Thursday.
In a parallel effort to address the aftermath of the landslide, the Davao de Oro Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) has initiated a rescue operation for pets that were left behind in the chaos. The mission was spurred by social media appeals concerning pets that were displaced during the landslide and subsequent evacuations. To date, the PVO has successfully rescued 23 dogs and 27 cats, providing them with necessary nourishment and healthcare.
Dr. Headyn Cenabre, assistant department head of the PVO, emphasized the ongoing nature of their rescue efforts, stating that many areas remain to be covered and numerous stray animals are still in need of assistance. The rescued pets are currently being cared for in a temporary shelter located in an impound area in Mawab town. Cenabre highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that many of the animals found are hungry and frightened.
The community's response to the disaster includes both the search for missing persons and the care for displaced animals, underscoring the wide-reaching impact of the landslide in Davao de Oro.