T’boli, South Cotabato — Torrential rains triggered sudden and powerful flash floods that swept through several barangays in the town of T’boli on Friday afternoon, January 2, 2026, sending muddy floodwaters mixed with logs and debris rushing into communities and damaging vital infrastructure.
Dramatic scenes were recorded in Purok Tangko 2, Barangay Poblacion, where fast-moving floodwaters overflowed waterways and inundated nearby areas. Authorities confirmed that Barangay Kematu was among the hardest hit, as floodwaters surged from upstream following hours of intense rainfall. Residents expressed alarm over the abruptness and strength of the flooding, which left little time to prepare.
The flooding rendered key bridges impassable, including the bridge connecting to Barangay Kematu and the heavily damaged bridge in Barangay Lemsnolon. Vehicles remain unable to cross due to the strong current and structural damage caused by the floodwaters. The South Cotabato Provincial Engineering Office (PEO) has already conducted an on-site assessment. PEO Head Engineer Lloyd Esparagosa said heavy equipment will be deployed in coordination with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of T’boli to address the damage and restore access as soon as conditions allow.
According to initial reports from the MDRRMO, floodwaters entered several homes near creeks in Barangay Kematu and low-lying portions of Barangay Poblacion. Fourteen families from Sitio Lambila, Barangay Desawo were temporarily evacuated and provided with food packs and E-BALDE kits. Clearing operations are ongoing, led by the MDRRMO and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), to remove fallen tree branches, mud, and other debris blocking roads and pathways.
Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation as floodwaters have yet to fully subside. The public is strongly advised to avoid flooded areas and damaged bridges, remain alert for further advisories, and immediately report emergencies. Local officials stressed that safety remains the top priority as assessments and rehabilitation efforts continue amid unstable weather conditions.