10 dead, 3 rescued as Habagat-triggered landslide buries homes in Baguio

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Ten people died while three others survived after a landslide triggered by heavy and continuous rains buried two houses in Purok 2, Guisad Surong, Baguio City, on Sunday night, August 9.

After more than a day of racing against time and relentlessly digging through debris, Mayor Benjamin Magalong announced early Tuesday morning that all 13 individuals reported trapped in the landslide had been accounted for, with three survivors rescued.

The search and retrieval operation was immediately activated after the landslide struck the area past 7 p.m. on August 9 amid heavy and continuous downpour brought by the southwest monsoon, or Habagat.

Rescue teams, responders, volunteers, and partner agencies worked tirelessly through the night and despite continuing inclement weather to locate the trapped individuals.

The last victim, an 8-year-old, was extracted at around 2:40 a.m. on August 11, marking the conclusion of the primary search and retrieval operations.

Authorities confirmed that 10 of the 13 victims died, including a 2-year-old girl, whose body was recovered at around 2:52 p.m. on August 10.

The three survivors, who were rushed to the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, were identified as two 27-year-old women and a 77-year-old pastor.

‘These have been difficult and painful days for Baguio’

Following the conclusion of the search and retrieval operations, Magalong extended his sympathies to the families and loved ones of the 10 fatalities, saying no words could lessen the sorrow caused by losing a loved one, particularly under such sudden and tragic circumstances.

“We grieve with every family who waited and hoped during the search, and we share in the sadness that has settled over our community. Our thoughts and prayers remain with them during this very difficult time,” he expressed.

The mayor also thanked the rescue teams, responders, volunteers, and partner agencies who worked tirelessly to rescue and recover the 13 individuals.

Magalong likewise expressed gratitude to members of the public who extended assistance by providing food, clothing, supplies, and other forms of support to those affected by the tragedy.

With all 13 individuals now accounted for, Magalong said the local government's attention will shift to the affected families and communities to ensure that appropriate assistance is provided safely and properly.

The tragedy underscores the dangers posed by prolonged and heavy rainfall in Baguio, particularly in areas vulnerable to landslides and other rain-induced hazards.