At least 358 families were evacuated to safety after heavy rains brought by the Easterlies and the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) triggered flooding in several parts of Davao City on Monday night, prompting the suspension of classes and government work on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
Floodwaters rose after the Matina and Bunawan rivers overflowed, affecting low-lying communities and forcing residents to seek temporary shelter in evacuation centers.
City Information Officer Harvey Lanticse said the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) recorded a total of 358 affected families who were evacuated during the height of the flooding.
“As of this morning, affected individuals who temporarily took shelter at evacuation sites have begun returning to their homes,” he added.
The city government of Davao suspended face-to-face classes and school activities in both public and private schools at all levels, as well as government work, on Tuesday to give way to clearing operations and ensure the safety and welfare of residents in affected communities.
Work in national and local government offices, including government-owned and controlled corporations, was likewise suspended, except for offices tasked with safety and security, health services, social welfare, and disaster and emergency response operations.
Private companies and establishments were given discretion to suspend work but were encouraged to prioritize the safety and welfare of their employees.
The city government of Davao said clearing operations in affected barangays are ongoing in coordination with the Ancillary Services Unit (ASU), City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), City Engineer’s Office (CEO), CDRRMO, and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
“To ensure the welfare and safety of everyone and to give way to clearing operations, the LGU has suspended work and classes today, May 19, 2026, following the flooding incidents caused by heavy rainfall brought about by the Easterlies and ITCZ last night,” Lanticse said.
Lanticse also said the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the Office of the City Mayor immediately extended food packs and initial assistance to displaced residents, including support for the family of a reported flood-related casualty.
Meanwhile, a 21-year-old gasoline station attendant died after he was reportedly electrocuted and swept away by floodwaters in New San Isidro, Barangay Buhangin.
The Buhangin Police Station reported that the victim was found floating near his boarding house around 2 a.m. by police personnel, barangay responders, and Central 911 rescue teams conducting flood monitoring operations.
He was rushed to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) but was later declared dead. Initial findings showed that the victim died from cardiopulmonary arrest secondary to electrocution and drowning.
Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions across the city and are urging residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas to stay alert and immediately follow evacuation advisories when necessary.
