Massive landslide isolates indigenous communities in Bukidnon

Landmark Disruption

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Over the weekend, a massive landslide occurred on the Kapalong-Talaingod-Valencia (KTV) Road in Sitio Balacayo, Barangay Kalagangan, San Fernando, Bukidnon after days of heavy monsoon rains enhanced by Typhoon Inday (international name: Bavi). The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said the landslide has cut off a vital road that connects Bukidnon and Davao del Norte, isolating several Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities.

### A Glimpse of the Damage

The massive landslide buried the highway, a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) official said on Sunday. 'The volume of debris is quite massive,' the official said. Thousands of cubic meters of mud, rocks, trees, and other debris have been buried underneath the rubble. The DPWH added that clearing operations along the KTV Road will take months to complete.

### The People Most Affected

The DPWH is working closely with the affected communities, providing them with necessary assistance and aid during this challenging time. The local government units are also on the ground to assist the displaced families. The situation in these areas remains precarious, with limited access to basic necessities like food, water, and medical aid.

The DPWH said that their teams are working tirelessly to clear the debris and restore the vital road. This is expected to take several months. The agency has assured that their primary concern is the safety of the people affected by the landslide.

### Background Context

Typhoon Inday (international name: Bavi) brought with it heavy rains that caused flooding in several parts of the country. The DPWH said that the KTV Road is a vital connection between Bukidnon and Davao del Norte. The road links several Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities, including the Talaandig and Higaonon tribes.

In the aftermath of the landslide, the DPWH has called for the public's patience and understanding. The agency has assured the public that they are working around the clock to clear the debris and restore the vital road.