Libona, Bukidnon – June 28, 2025 — A wave of grief has swept over a family in Libona, Bukidnon, following the heartbreaking deaths of three young sisters who were swept away by floodwaters on Saturday.
According to initial reports, the victims—all minors—attempted to cross the Bubuwanan River despite the rising water levels brought by continuous heavy rainfall. The river, located in a mountainous area of the municipality, was already swollen due to the torrential downpour when the tragedy occurred.
Witnesses said the girls, whose identities are being withheld due to their age, were warned about the danger but still pushed through with their attempt to cross. The force of the rushing floodwaters proved too strong, pulling them under and carrying them away.
Local rescuers responded immediately upon receiving the report. After hours of search and retrieval efforts, the lifeless bodies of the three sisters were recovered, confirming the worst fears of their loved ones.
A Stark Reminder: The Need for Flood Risk Awareness
This tragedy underscores the critical need for communities, especially those in flood-prone and remote areas, to be equipped with proper knowledge about flood risks and the importance of heeding warnings during extreme weather conditions.
Bubuwanan River, like many rivers in upland Bukidnon, can rise rapidly and without much warning due to the area’s geography and susceptibility to sudden downpours. Experts have long urged the need for greater education and community-based programs on how to identify early signs of flooding and what actions to take when danger is imminent.
Disaster Preparedness and Prevention Saves Lives
As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather, disaster preparedness must become a fundamental part of every household and community. Awareness campaigns, school-based disaster risk reduction education, and the activation of early warning systems are essential to prevent similar tragedies from happening again.
Local authorities and barangay officials are now being urged to strengthen monitoring efforts and to ensure that community members—especially children—understand the dangers posed by swollen rivers and flash floods.
The heartbreaking loss of these three young lives is a painful lesson and a solemn call for action. It is a reminder that knowledge can mean the difference between life and death, and that being prepared is not just a personal responsibility, but a community obligation.
In Memory and in Action
As the family mourns, the community of Libona grieves with them. Let this tragedy serve not only as a moment of sorrow but also as a catalyst for change—towards stronger disaster preparedness, smarter decisions during emergencies, and a safer future for all.