ILIGAN CITY — Tropical Storm Basyang battered Iligan City and nearby areas in Northern Mindanao, triggering widespread flooding, landslides, and forced evacuations as continuous heavy rains overwhelmed rivers and drainage systems.
Several barangays were submerged after overnight downpours caused the Tubod River to swell, prompting authorities to temporarily close the Tubod Bridge along the national highway. Thick debris, including mud, stones, and tree branches, rendered the bridge impassable and disrupted the flow of traffic in and out of the city.
Low-lying communities such as Barangay Mahayahay experienced prolonged flooding, pushing families to seek refuge on higher floors of their homes or transfer to designated evacuation centers. At the height of the flooding, water levels reportedly reached up to three feet in some areas, damaging property and carrying away parked vehicles.
Residents also reported landslides in upland barangays including Pugaan, Mandulog, and Lambaguhon, with roads partially blocked and access limited. Netizens appealed online for immediate assistance to clear debris and restore mobility.
The Iligan City local government confirmed that rescue operations were conducted in several barangays, including Tubod, Tambacan, Abuno, Tipanoy, Hinaplanon, Poblacion, Palao, Saray, and Ubaldo de Laya, as weather conditions continued to pose risks.
Meanwhile, in the coastal town of Manitcao, Misamis Oriental, authorities ordered preemptive evacuations due to flooding, landslides, and strong waves. Mayor Stephen Tan said dozens of residents had been temporarily relocated to the municipal government compound, with monitoring ongoing as river levels continued to rise.
Disaster response teams remain on heightened alert, while officials urge residents in flood- and landslide-prone areas to stay vigilant, heed advisories, and prioritize safety as Tropical Storm Basyang continues to affect large parts of Mindanao.
