Basyang death toll now 12 — OCD

The death toll from Tropical Storm Basyang has climbed to 12 as of 6 p.m. Saturday, according to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

In its latest report, the OCD said nine of the fatalities were recorded in Northern Mindanao (Region X).

Four people died in a landslide in Cagayan de Oro City, while four others were reported killed in Lanao del Norte. One additional death in the region is still undergoing validation.

In the Caraga region, three deaths were reported due to drowning—two in Surigao del Sur and one in Agusan del Norte.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Basyang made a total of five landfalls during its forecast period.

The weather system reached tropical storm category at its peak before weakening into a remnant low around 2 a.m. Saturday and dissipating by 8 a.m.

Authorities also reported widespread displacement. Around 3,800 families were displaced in Iligan City, while more than 2,000 individuals were evacuated in Cagayan de Oro City.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it has distributed more than ₱27 million worth of humanitarian assistance to families affected by Basyang nationwide.—MCG, GMA Integrated News