Four Dead in Cagayan de Oro Landslide Amid Basyang's Onslaught
Rescue operations led by CDRRMD-Oro Rescue were conducted in Barangay Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City, early Friday morning, February 6, 2026, following a devastating landslide incident. The tragic event occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m., as Tropical Storm Basyang continued to unleash its fury across the region.
Casualties and Family Impact
Four individuals were reported dead due to the landslide, with two more sustaining injuries in the same incident. In a radio interview, Office of the Civil Defense spokesperson Junnie Castillo indicated that the victims are believed to be from the same family, although verification is still ongoing. "We believe isang pamilya ito pero chine-check pa," he stated, highlighting the personal toll of this natural disaster.
Widespread Effects Across Regions
Castillo revealed that over 5,000 families have been affected by the effects of Basyang, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao areas. He emphasized the ongoing challenges in gathering updates, noting that some communities remain isolated due to persistent strong winds and heavy rainfall. "Sa ngayon, ongoing pagkuha nung mga updates coming from these regions. Dito nga may mga hindi pa nakakalabas kasi binabayo pa rin sila nung malakas na hangin at pag-ulan," he added.
The storm's impact has extended beyond landslides, with several provinces along Basyang's path experiencing power outages. Massive flooding has also been recorded in Iligan City, compounding the emergency situation.
Government Response and Aid Distribution
In response to the crisis, the Department of Social Welfare and Development has already distributed food packs and modular tents to affected families, particularly in the Caraga region. Assistance has also been provided to stranded passengers in the ports of Matnog, Sorsogon, and Masbate City, ensuring that relief efforts reach those in urgent need.
Storm Updates and Forecast
As of 10 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, the center of Basyang was located over the coastal waters of Anda, Bohol. The storm has weakened into a tropical depression, with maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h near the center, gusts of up to 70 km/h, and a central pressure of 1002 hPa. It is moving west northwestward at a speed of 10 km/h.
According to Pagasa, Basyang is expected to continue moving generally west northwestward throughout the forecast period. Its center may pass close 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," Pagasa added, urging continued vigilance in affected areas.
This incident underscores the severe impact of tropical storms in the Philippines, calling for enhanced disaster preparedness and community resilience in vulnerable regions.
