Cebu city: The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has announced that search and rescue operations are in progress after a landslide occurred at a landfill area in Barangay Binaliw, Cebu City. The incident has resulted in at least one fatality and left 12 individuals injured.

According to Philippines News Agency, the NDRRMC reported that the landslide took place at 4:17 p.m. on Thursday. Preliminary reports suggest that several people might be trapped under the debris, prompting immediate rescue efforts. The council is currently verifying reports of one death, 12 injuries, and 38 individuals reported missing.

The rescue operations involve multiple agencies, including the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other local government stakeholders.

In response to the situation, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has instructed local police forces to prioritize life-saving activities. He emphasized the importance of securing the area and ensuring the safety of both responders and residents. Nartatez has also mandated the setup of police assistance desks and perimeter controls to aid in the ongoing operations.

The PNP, along with other agencies and volunteers, is working diligently to maintain smooth and continuous rescue efforts while minimizing any secondary risks associated with the operations.