Man killed in landslide while gold panning in Tuba, Benguet

BAGUIO CITY — A man died after being buried by a landslide Tuesday afternoon in Tuba, Benguet.

The incident occurred at around 4 p.m. on 27 January 2026, but was reported to authorities at Camp 1 only at about 9:55 p.m. the same day.

The 47-year-old victim and his daughter, both residents of Tuba, Benguet, were gold panning along a riverbank near their home when a portion of the earth above them collapsed, striking the victim.

The victim’s daughter, who was positioned farther down the riverbank, rushed to her father’s location but could not immediately find him. After several minutes, she heard a sound coming from the debris and was able to locate his position. She then sought help from neighbors, who assisted in exhuming the victim.

The victim was transported for medical treatment but was declared dead on arrival at around 9 p.m. on 27 January 2026. He sustained multiple bodily injuries.

The family declined an autopsy, citing their belief that the death resulted from a tragic accident.