DAVAO CITY — A total of 32 individuals were successfully rescued by authorities after they were reportedly trapped by rising floodwaters caused by heavy rains in Sitio Pagan, Tamugan, Marilog District on Saturday, May 23, 2026.
According to a report from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), the victims were in the area to install a cockpit arena or “sabongan” in preparation for the upcoming barangay fiesta when intense rainfall suddenly triggered the swelling of a nearby river.
Authorities said the flooding was brought about by the trough of a Low Pressure Area (LPA), which continued to dump heavy rains over several parts of Mindanao, including Davao City.
The individuals were caught off guard as water levels rapidly rose, leaving them stranded in the flooded portion of Sitio Pagan.
A joint rescue operation was immediately launched through the coordinated efforts of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), DCPO, Central 911 responders, and local barangay emergency personnel.
Rescuers worked together to safely evacuate all 32 trapped individuals from the flooded area amid strong currents and continuous rainfall.
Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported during the incident.
Authorities confirmed that all rescued individuals were able to safely return to their respective homes after the operation.
The incident once again highlighted the dangers posed by sudden flooding in upland communities during periods of severe weather disturbances, especially in areas near rivers and creeks vulnerable to rapid water rise.
Local authorities continue to remind residents to remain vigilant and avoid flood-prone areas during heavy rains as unstable weather conditions persist due to the prevailing LPA affecting Mindanao.