Rescue Operations Underway in Cagayan de Oro as Typhoon Basyang Triggers Severe Flooding
In the early hours of Friday, February 6, 2026, the Cagayan de Oro City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (DRRMO) launched urgent rescue operations for residents in Barangay Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City. The emergency response was initiated at 3:15 AM due to severe flooding brought by Typhoon Basyang, which has been battering the region with intense rainfall and strong winds.
Casualties and Widespread Impact Reported
Tragically, four individuals have been confirmed dead following a landslide incident in Cagayan de Oro City, exacerbated by the typhoon's onslaught. In a radio interview, Junnie Castillo, spokesperson for the Office of the Civil Defense, disclosed that two additional persons were injured in the same landslide event. Castillo emphasized that the storm's impact is extensive, with over 5,000 families affected across the Visayas and Mindanao regions.
"We are continuously gathering updates from these areas. Many communities remain isolated as they are still being pummeled by heavy rains and strong winds," Castillo explained. He further revealed that several provinces along Basyang's path have experienced power outages, and significant flooding has been recorded in Iligan City, compounding the crisis.
Government Relief Efforts and Storm Updates
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has mobilized relief operations, distributing food packs and modular tents to affected families, particularly in the Caraga region. Assistance is also being provided to stranded passengers at ports in Matnog, Sorsogon, and Masbate City, ensuring support reaches those in urgent need.
As of 10:00 AM on Friday, February 6, 2026, Typhoon Basyang was located over the waters near Anda, Bohol. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the storm has weakened into a tropical depression but continues to move west-northwestward at a speed of 10 km/h. PAGASA forecasts that Basyang will maintain this trajectory, with its center likely to pass near or make landfall over Bohol and the southern portions of Cebu and Negros Oriental.
"Afterwards, it will pass close over the southern portion of Panay Island Saturday afternoon or evening, February 7," the agency stated, urging residents in these areas to remain vigilant and follow local advisories.
