1 dead in Davao Sur flashflood

MANILA, Philippines - A flashflood triggered by heavy rains hit Matanao town in Davao del Sur last Monday, leaving one person dead and affecting four villages.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said the flood occurred in Purok Duranta, Barangay Bangkal Proper in Matanao town. 

NDRRMC spokesman Maj. Rey Balido said the flood was not related to Typhoon Labuyo, which ravaged parts of Luzon and the Visayas this week.  

A 60-year-old man identified as Erme Esperanza died after he was swept away by rampaging floodwaters while tending his carabao.

The flood affected 12 families in Barangay Bangkal as well as residents of Barangays Kabasagan, Kapok and Tamlangon, damaged the Borilon Bridge in Kabasagan, and ravaged 20 hectares of banana plants and 1.56 hectares of coconut trees.