Mudslide Hits Benguet Mining Community Amid Heavy Rains
A powerful mudslide struck the Acupan community in Barangay Virac, Itogon town, Benguet, on Friday, July 4. Continuous heavy rains caused the disaster, forcing local authorities to launch immediate clearing operations and evacuate affected families. The mudslide’s impact on the Benguet mining community has raised concerns among residents and officials alike.
Itogon Mayor Bernard Waclin personally oversaw the response efforts. According to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), 19 households were evacuated to safer locations as a precautionary measure. While the Mines and Geosciences Bureau has yet to confirm the mudslide, local leaders are closely monitoring the situation.
Response and Previous Tragedy in the Area
The ongoing heavy rains have made the terrain unstable, increasing the risk of further landslides in this mining-rich region. The recent mudslide is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by communities living near mining operations in Benguet.
Just last month, a tragic landslide near the pocket mines in Acupan claimed the lives of three miners who were asleep when the earth gave way. The incident occurred on the night of June 22. Firefighters and first responders retrieved the bodies after a 16-year-old survivor alerted authorities to the disaster.
Mining Community and Safety Concerns
Itogon hosts several mining firms, including Benguet Corporation, the country’s oldest mining company. Due to its active mining activities, the area remains vulnerable to natural hazards like landslides and mudslides, especially during the rainy season.
Local officials continue to prioritize the safety of residents and workers in the region. Efforts to clear debris and assess unstable areas are ongoing to prevent further incidents.
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