Search operation launched for man in Benguet feared to have been buried in landslide

Benguet, Philippines - A search operation is underway to find a missing man in Sitio Talingoroy, Barangay Wangal, La Trinidad, Benguet, after a landslide triggered by relentless rain and the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm ‘Emong’ swept through the area around 4 a.m. this Friday, July 25.

The missing man’s niece believes that the victim may have been swept away by the massive landslide that struck their place.

Benguet Provincial Police is leading the search efforts.

Teams from Benguet 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company and La Trinidad Municipal Police Station have also been mobilized and are working with the personnel from Philippine Red Cross Benguet Chapter, La Trinidad BFP, and Wangal BLGU.

Other incidents of landslide - Lucnab, Baguio and Alapang, La Trinidad

Another landslide, this time, in Barangay Lucnab, Baguio City wrecked a house, with initial reports of a possible trapped victim.

City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer III Julius Torres later confirmed that the supposed occupant was safe and had taken refuge with relatives in Poyopoy Tuba.

Another incident destroyed a house in Alapang, La Trinidad earlier today. No casualties were reported, and the Department of Social and Development - Cordillera said they have provided cash assistance to the affected family.

As of 12 noon, the continuous downpour affected at least 780 families or 3,532 individuals in Benguet alone.

Residents, especially those in high-risk areas, are advised to stay vigilant as rains are expected to persist with ‘Emong’ still affecting Northern Luzon.