Authorities in Itogon, Benguet confirmed that all small-scale miners involved in Thursday’s landslide incident were found safe and uninjured. The landslide occurred on November 27, 2025 in Camp 1, Acupan, Virac following weeks of rain that weakened the slope, Daily Tribune reports.
Local disaster officer Engr. Cyril Batcagan said the softened ground and steep terrain contributed to the collapse, which measured about 50 meters. “Siyempre bumagyo, na-saturate na siya tapos biglang huminto so bigla na namang nawala yung tubig so babagsak na siya,” he said, adding that the area had long been prone to sliding. “Kandidato siyang babagsak dahil sa taas ng slope.”
Initial reports indicated that around 30 pocket miners were able to exit the tunnels immediately, while another 30 to 40 were feared to be trapped. As responders continued accounting for those inside, officials discovered that more than 130 miners had entered the tunnels that morning.
By 3PM, the remaining miners managed to get out safely. The Incident Management Team and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office later verified that all 138 miners were accounted for. Batcagan noted that all individuals involved were small-scale miners and not employees of mining companies. “Hindi natin mapipigilan yung mga kababayan natin kasi yun lang ang alam nilang pangkabuhayan,” he said.
The landslide damaged three shanties and two electric posts, but no casualties or injuries were reported. Itogon Mayor Bernard S. Waclin commended the miners for their alertness and urged the community to continue observing safety protocols, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
With the rainy season continuing to affect mountain communities, what measures do you think should be strengthened to reduce landslide risks in small-scale mining areas?
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