TACLOBAN CITY - At least two individuals were killed and 129 were rescued in a landslide that occurred in two villages in Abuyog, Leyte, Tuesday (April 12).
According to reports, landslides triggered by Tropical Storm Agaton’s torrential rains hit Barangays Pilar and Lawa-an this town.
As access to the two villages was also impassable due to thick mud, boulders and other debris, rescue teams reached the affected areas through motorboats from the town proper.
The rescue operations, including those from nearby municipalities, lasted until 10:30 p.m.
They were able to rescue about 96 individuals from Pilar and 31 from Lawa-an.
However, a minor and an unidentified adult, were spotted by rescuers but were declared dead on arrival at the Abuyog District Hospital where most of the injured persons were brought for medical attention.
Those who were uninjured on the other hand were brought to the town's evacuation center.
Residents from the two villages claimed that the landslide that occurred yesterday also spawned a "tsunami-like" wave that hit their houses located near the river banks.
"This has been the catastrophe that broke my heart. I can't help but sigh and closed my eyes as I felt the sorrow of losing my beloved people of Barangay Pilar," said Mayor Lemuel Gin Traya, visibly depressed by the sufferings of Abuyog folks.
He recalled that he was with ABC President Darrio Lleve in the afternoon while they were undertaking pre-emptive evacuations in Brgy. Bahay.
Road clearing operations were already underway to access Brgy. Pilar, including nearby villages, to continue the pre-emptive evacuation.
"Moments later, we were all terrified by the realization that Brgy. Pilar has been completely devastated by a disastrous landslide," he said.
He added that they had exerted all means possible to save the people of Brgy. Pilar. They were able to rescue and save some wounded children, senior citizens, and injured, and distressed individuals.
"I also wish to ask for your prayers and support. Let us all pray for our brothers and sisters who suffered from this tragic catastrophe."
"Thank you to all volunteers and concerned government agencies who worked with us in our time of distress and pain. I will be forever grateful for your commitment and support,” the mayor said.