Authorities have confirmed the recovery of a fourth body in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, three days after a flash flood struck Barangay Tanuman on July 10.
The latest victim, identified as 50-year-old Rossana Galas Masaglang, brings the confirmed death toll to four. In addition, rescue teams found another unidentified body in Barangay Malalan.
Community Faces Tragedy and Loss
No matter how strong your infrastructure is, if nature enforces the unforeseen strength of the earthquake, it will overpower all.
Jason John Joyce, Mayor of Jose Abad Santos
Rescuers previously recovered the bodies of Baby Jane, her daughter Ruby Jane, and her grandson Leonard. Baby Jane was reported to be the mother of Ruby Jane and grandmother of Leonard.
Survivor Danny Pallano Diantan, 55, is among those who endured the flood, which was exacerbated by the southwest monsoon and a nearby typhoon.
Currently, five individuals remain missing, including a 4-year-old girl and two elderly individuals. Mayor Joyce has provided cash assistance of ₱10,000 to affected families and plans to cover funeral expenses.
While the municipality grapples with the immediate aftermath, Joyce emphasized the need for disaster-resilient infrastructure, stating that future plans will incorporate such measures into their 2027 Annual Investment Plan.
As recovery efforts continue, the community remains united in its grief and determination to support the families impacted by the tragedy.