Landslide Ravages Kalunasan Neighborhood in Cebu City, Prompting Emergency Evacuation
A devastating landslide struck Sitio Lokana, Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, causing significant damage to residential properties. The incident, triggered by relentless heavy rainfall, has left the community grappling with displacement and safety concerns.
Extensive Damage and Immediate Response
According to local reports, the landslide affected ten houses in total. Two homes were completely demolished, while eight others sustained major cracks, rendering them unsafe for habitation. In response, Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak, Chairman of the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CCDRRMC), swiftly inspected the area to assess the situation.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were recorded, a point emphasized by Tumulak as a stroke of luck given the severity of the event. To ensure the safety of residents, over 40 affected individuals were promptly evacuated to the Barangay Kalunasan school, where they are receiving temporary shelter and support.
Personal Accounts and Community Appeals
One of the displaced residents, Samuel Eran, 55 years old, shared his harrowing experience. He noted that signs of the landslide were evident as early as 1:00 PM, prompting him to evacuate immediately with his wife and grandchild. "By 3:00 PM, while the rain continued, my house was swept away toward the river. We couldn't save any of our belongings," Eran recounted.
Eran has appealed to local authorities for assistance with basic needs and urged action to reinforce weak riprap near the riverbank to prevent further damage. Currently, the Barangay Kalunasan government has provided initial aid, including food supplies. Residents have been strictly prohibited from returning to their homes due to ongoing ground movement and persistent danger in the area.
Broader Impact and Ongoing Risks
Beyond Kalunasan, other mountainous barangays in Cebu City, such as Budlaan, Mabini, Buot-Taup, Sapangdaku, Guba, and Sirao, have also experienced minor landslides. This highlights the widespread vulnerability of the region to such natural disasters amid continuous rainfall. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing public safety and disaster preparedness measures.
