Authorities have confirmed the deaths of three individuals in a landslide that struck Camp 5, Acupan, Virac, Itogon, Benguet on Sunday.
The identities of the victims have not been disclosed as officials are still in the process of contacting their respective families.
According to initial reports, a search, rescue, and retrieval operation was conducted by the Bureau of Fire Protection–Itogon and other government agencies, but responders were unable to save the victims.
Residents, especially those living in high-risk zones, have been advised to remain alert during this rainy season and to report any signs of ground movement immediately.
Disaster officials also urged the public to coordinate with local authorities and evacuate promptly if any danger signs are observed in landslide-prone areas.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Itogon, Benguet has renewed its call for residents to stay alert, following the recent landslide that claimed the lives of three miners last Sunday.
Engineer Cyril Batcagan, head of MDRRMO-Itogon, advised residents during a radio interview to be vigilant of their surroundings, especially in areas prone to soil erosion and landslides during this rainy season.
He urged residents to evacuate immediately to designated centers if they live in landslide-prone zones and rainfall intensifies for at least an hour to prevent similar tragedies.
Miners were also warned to avoid entering active tunnels, as conditions remain highly risky during continuous rainfall.
Batcagan noted that critical zones had already been marked with red stickers to identify hazardous locations with residential structures.
Despite this, some residents reportedly removed the warning markers or set up makeshift shelters in dangerous areas.
Meanwhile, Shirley Mendez, employer of the miners buried in the landslide, expressed readiness to provide support to the victims’ families.
The Itogon local government also confirmed its preparedness to assist the affected families with necessary aid and relief efforts.