DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/19 May 2026) – Nearly a month’s worth of rain fell over the Davao Region within 24 hours, according to the Office of Civil Defense. In an advisory posted on Facebook at 5:19 p.m. on May 19, OCD XI reported that the highest rainfall recorded on May 18 reached 129 millimeters, based on data from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. This amount represents nearly 80% of the region’s average monthly precipitation. The heavy rains were attributed to an Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and Easterlies, as stated by various disaster councils and response teams. The Regional Disaster Risk Response and Management Council XI was on heightened alert due to the continuous rains. While a full report on flooding, landslides, infrastructure damage, and power outages had not been released by 8 p.m., preliminary data indicated significant impacts. Seven barangays experienced flooding, two landslides occurred, two structures collapsed, and 357 families or 1,469 individuals were affected, with one reported casualty. Eleven barangays were still without electricity, and a bridge connecting Barangay Callawa to Barangay Mandug collapsed early on May 18. Locals resorted to climbing a steep embankment and using a rope to cross the damaged bridge, which serves as a crucial link between Buhangin and barangays Callawa, Calinan, Maa, and Magtuod, as well as between Callawa and the downtown area, Buhangin, Tibungko, and Bunawan. The bridge’s destruction forced motorists to take a longer alternate route, while those transporting cargo faced additional challenges. The City Disaster Risk Response and Management Office investigated the collapsed structure, though it remained unclear whether it was a city or Department of Public Works and Highways XI project. Meanwhile, the City Government of Davao suspended work and classes on Tuesday morning.
