Maguindanao del Sur, Philippines — More than 30,000 residents have been affected by flooding across several towns in Maguindanao del Sur following two consecutive days of heavy rainfall, the Office of Civil Defense–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OCD-BARMM) reported.
According to OCD-BARMM, a total of 6,023 families or 30,115 individuals have been displaced or impacted by rising floodwaters in low-lying areas of Datu Abdullah Sangki, Shariff Aguak, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, and Datu Salibo.
The flooding is the latest reminder of BARMM’s growing vulnerability to climate change impacts. Experts and government agencies have consistently identified the region as one of the most at risk due to its geographic location, high poverty incidence, and limited infrastructure for disaster resilience.
OCD-BARMM Regional Director Joel Mamon led an aerial survey and inspection of the affected areas, accompanied by Colonel Cesar Pascua of the Tactical Operations Group and the 6th Infantry Division’s public affairs office. The team assessed damage in various municipalities, noting widespread inundation and infrastructure damage.
One wooden bridge in Mamasapano was destroyed by the flood, cutting off access to parts of the town. In Datu Salibo, the municipal town hall and 17 barangays were submerged.
Authorities say the number of affected families may still rise as ongoing evaluation and assessment are completed.
The frequent flooding events across BARMM are raising urgent calls for enhanced climate adaptation and disaster preparedness in the region. Local leaders and civil society organizations are urging national and regional agencies to invest in long-term solutions, including climate-resilient infrastructure, improved drainage systems, and sustainable land use planning.
As extreme weather events become more frequent and severe, BARMM remains one of the frontlines in the Philippines’ struggle against the climate crisis.