SEVERAL areas in the Davao Region experienced flooding and landslides caused by a Low-Pressure Area (LPA), previously Tropical Depression Querubin.
The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Mawab reported a landslide on the evening of December 18, 2024, at Km 61, Pandapan, Tagum, Davao del Norte. Clearing operations are ongoing, and motorists have been advised to take alternate routes. Another landslide occurred at Km 69, National Highway, Barangay Tuboran, Mawab, at around 10 p.m. The incident caused heavy congestion but was cleared shortly after, making the road passable.
In Tagum City, the local government mobilized its City Engineer’s Office (CEO) and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) to conduct clearing operations along the Tagum-Mawab Highway in Barangay Pandapan. The landslide, triggered by continuous rains due to the LPA and Shear Line, was cleared by 12:17 a.m., and the highway was reopened to all vehicles. Flooding was also reported in Purok 2A, Magdum, prompting the evacuation of residents to Saludares Elementary School.
Panabo City experienced significant flooding as waters in Barangay Gredu rose to waist-deep levels. Rescue operations led to the relocation of six families, comprising 25 individuals, to the CDRRMO Panabo Center.
The persistent rains prompted local government units across the region to suspend classes and work to ensure public safety.
Panabo City issued Executive Order No. 130, which suspended all classes and work in public offices following PAGASA’s advisory warning of heavy rainfall due to the LPA and Shear Line.
The municipality of Caraga also suspended classes and Department of Education (DepEd) operations indefinitely starting December 18.
Mati City, along with the municipalities of Manay, Governor Generoso, Tarragona, San Isidro, Banaybanay, and Caraga, followed suit with similar suspensions across all levels in both public and private schools.
“In accordance with its commitment to protect the lives of its residents, the city government has always prioritized the safety of every individual in the city of Panabo, thus, upon the recommendation of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, classes at all levels in the city and work in government offices shall be suspended given the continuous rainfall brought about by the LPA and the Shear Line,” Mati City government's EO No. 125, Series of 2024 stated.
In its weather advisory issued on December 19, PAGASA warned of continuous rainfall, particularly in mountainous and elevated areas, with the potential to exacerbate flooding and landslides due to significant antecedent rainfall. The public and local disaster risk reduction offices were advised to take all necessary precautions to protect lives and property.
Local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are working to mitigate the impact of the weather disturbance on affected communities. RGP