By Che Palicte
DAVAO CITY – Four died and three others are missing after a flash flood swept through Mini Asik-Asik Falls, a tributary of the Talomo River in Barangay Carmen, Baguio District here on Sunday.
The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) reported Monday that the four deceased were a 47-year-old male, a 12-year-old girl, an 11-year-old boy and a 29-year-old female, all residents of Davao City.
Sudden heavy rains triggered a surge of water through the falls, trapping several swimmers. Seven individuals were initially reported missing, while at least 12 others were rescued.
As of 3:20 p.m. Monday, CDRRMO chief Alfredo Baloran announced a temporary halt to retrieval operations due to adverse weather. Operations are expected to resume Tuesday, subject to improved conditions.
Baloran reiterated the advisory against visiting the falls, citing the risk of landslides and flash floods.
“The Mines and Geosciences Bureau-Davao declared the area a danger zone as early as 2022 due to its susceptibility to landslides, especially during heavy rains,” Baloran added.
He said all activities, including entry into the site, remain strictly prohibited. (PNA)
