DEVELOPING STORY

Rescue teams have retrieved three bodies from the landslide in Barangay Diwata, Monkayo, Davao de Oro midday on Friday, January 19, 2024.

Authorities identified the victims as Ritchell Rebuldad, Agnes Bitoon, and Elvira Saldua.

The bodies of Rebuldad and Bitoon were recovered first at midday. By 1:31 p.m., the body of Saldua was found.

Search and retrieval operation continues, as of this writing.

On January 18, rescuers retrieved the bodies of seven people killed in the landslide.

Authorities said a one-year-old baby is also in critical condition.

The landslide covered the road and two houses.

Rescue teams were quick to carry out a search and retrieval operation but suspended the operation eventually due to unfavorable weather conditions.

The operation resumed Friday.

“Nag conduct tayo ng search at retrieval operation kaya lang dahil malagas pa ang ulan kaya tinigil na lang mana kasi parang hindi na safe sa mga rescuers natin na nandon,” Monkayo Municipal Information Officer Jegrace Cabag has said.

Monkayo Mayor Manuel Zamora has ordered forced evacuation due to massive flooding and landslides brought by non-stop rains.