Manila: The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has activated heightened alert measures for its chapters in Mindanao in response to significant flooding and a landslide resulting from heavy rains caused by the prevailing shear line. These weather conditions have impacted various areas, including Surigao del Sur, Davao de Oro, and Davao Oriental.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRC chair and chief executive officer Richard Gordon issued directives for ongoing monitoring and rapid response operations in the affected regions. In Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, floodwaters have reached waist to chest levels, leading to evacuation efforts. Approximately 143 volunteers have been engaged in assisting residents to relocate to safer locations amid rising water levels.
A landslide incident was reported in Barangay Rizal, Monkayo, Davao de Oro, where the PRC Emergency Response Unit recovered three fatalities. The emergency medical services and search and rescue teams remain active in Purok 5. Additional flooding has been observed in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, necessitating the precautionary evacuation of 14 individuals.
Authorities are conducting ongoing assessments to ensure the safety of both residents and responders, with coordination efforts continuing alongside local disaster risk reduction and management offices. PRC chapters have established welfare desks at evacuation centers to provide support to affected families.
In Davao de Oro, the chapter has commenced the distribution of hot meals at Basak and Magsaysay evacuation centers, and hygiene promotion sessions have reached 160 individuals in Magsaysay. Volunteers and chapter responders remain on standby, with necessary supplies, equipment, and vehicles strategically prepositioned.
PRC secretary general Gwen Pang emphasized the strengthening of relief operations as assessments persist, ensuring that chapters are fully mobilized to deliver immediate aid. The PRC continues to monitor the situation closely as heavy rains persist and will provide further updates as response efforts continue to evolve.
