Tropical Storm "Penha" swept through the southern Philippines, bringing continuous heavy rain that led to flooding and landslides, claiming at least eight lives. Over 28,000 people had to evacuate, while many families remained stranded in their homes.
On 7 Feb 2026 GMT+7, international news agencies reported that Tropical Storm "Penha"—locally known as "Basyang"—made landfall in Surigao del Sur province in the southeastern Philippines late Thursday night. The storm caused heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides across multiple areas.
The Philippine Office of Civil Defense reported at least eight fatalities, including a married couple and two children who died when a landslide buried their home near a quarry in a village in Cagayan de Oro city after continuous heavy rain. Three others drowned in Iligan city, and one person died in Carmen town, Agusan del Norte province.
In Iligan city, located about 80 kilometers southwest of Cagayan de Oro, many residents remained trapped in homes flooded with rising waters. A woman called a radio station seeking help, saying her family and several neighbors were stuck on their second floors as floodwaters rapidly rose. Authorities confirmed that rescue teams were rushing to assist.
Philippine authorities stated that over 28,000 people have been evacuated to emergency shelters across several southern and central provinces. Schools in many areas were ordered closed for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that more than 7,400 passengers and transport workers were stranded at 78 ports following a ban on passenger and cargo vessels due to rough seas and strong winds.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Tropical Storm Penha has weakened to a tropical depression, with maximum winds around 55 kilometers per hour. It is moving through the central part of the country and is expected to continue weakening.
Source: AP