LAKE SEBU, South Cotabato — Residents and motorists in Sitio El Dulog, Barangay Ned, are facing serious difficulties after a landslide damaged the main access road in the area, leaving it impassable to most vehicles and disrupting daily life.
The incident, which occurred following days of continuous heavy rainfall, affected at least six families, according to initial assessments conducted by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office – South Cotabato, in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways and the local government of Lake Sebu.
Authorities reported that large cracks and portions of the road collapsed, effectively cutting off access for four-wheel vehicles and even limiting motorcycle passage. At present, only pedestrians and some motorcycles can cautiously cross the damaged section.
Livelihoods and Daily Activities Disrupted
Residents said the sudden deterioration of the road has severely affected transportation, trade, and access to essential services. Farmers are struggling to bring their produce to market, while students face difficulties in attending school due to the lack of safe transport routes.
“The damage worsened rapidly after the heavy rains,” one resident said, noting that the ground appeared to give way almost overnight.
The road serves as a vital link between Sitio El Dulog and the town center, making its closure a major setback for the community’s economic and social activities.
Mining Activities Cited as Possible Factor
Barangay Ned is known for ongoing coal mining operations, which some residents believe may have contributed to soil instability in the area. Experts have noted that coal deposits and excavation activities can weaken soil structure, especially when combined with prolonged rainfall.
While no official conclusion has been released, authorities said the Mines and Geosciences Bureau will be invited to conduct a technical investigation and explain the underlying causes of the landslide to the public.
Residents have called for a thorough probe into the possible environmental impact of mining activities, warning that similar incidents could occur if preventive measures are not enforced.
Mayor Leads Inspection, Aid Distributed
Lake Sebu Mayor Antonio G. “Ken” Fungan Jr. personally visited the affected area on Friday, February 13, 2026, to assess the situation and check on residents’ welfare.
He was accompanied by personnel from the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, including Cyril Dongon, who conducted an on-site evaluation of the damage.
During the visit, the mayor distributed food packs and assured families of continued assistance while recovery efforts are underway.
“Our priority is the safety of our residents and the immediate restoration of access,” Mayor Fungan said in a brief statement.
Ongoing Assessment and Rehabilitation
Local authorities said relief assistance has already been extended to affected families, and further assessments are being conducted to determine the extent of structural damage and the resources needed for rehabilitation.
Engineering teams are currently studying possible repair options, including slope stabilization and drainage improvements, to prevent further erosion and landslides.
However, officials warned that rehabilitation may take time due to unstable ground conditions and the need for technical clearance from national agencies.
Call for Immediate Action
Community members are urging the municipal and provincial governments to fast-track repair works and strengthen monitoring of mining and environmental activities in the area.
They also appealed for long-term solutions, including regular geohazard assessments and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, to avoid future disasters.
As of this writing, the damaged road in Sitio El Dulog remains closed to most vehicles, with residents hoping that swift government intervention will soon restore safe access and normalcy to their community.