LUNA, Apayao – Six persons were reported missing in a landslide that hit Lubong Butao, Calanasan, Apayao, during the onslaught of typhoon “Egay” in Northern Luzon on Tuesday, July 26. Apayao Gov. Elias C. Bulut Jr. said a search operation for the victims is under way. Bulut said torrential rains saturated parts of the mountain, loosened the soil, and caused a portion to collapse, covering a large area which included the place where the victims reside. An official from Calanasan said they are still verifying the identities of the missing. An initial list included two women, an eight-year-old child, and three men. Although they are feared dead and retrieval rather than a rescue is likely to be done, authorities hope they will be found. Rescuers are experiencing difficulties in the search operation, such as terrain and access to the area as well as lack of tools for clearing and excavation. The area is about 500 meters to one kilometer from the national road. The Army has provided a helicopter to transport first responders to the area.