Philippine Army conducts retrieval operations in Malapatan

The Philippine Army (PA) conducted retrieval operations for the bodies of the landslide victims at Sitio Safya, Barangay Poblacion in the town of Malapatan, Sarangani Province on 11 July 2026.

Troops under the units of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division, supported the joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations following the landslide that led to the death of 10 people.

Working alongside the Philippine Air Force (PAF), Philippine National Police (PNP), the Local Government Unit of Malapatan, and other responding agencies, military troops secured the designated landing zone, assisted in the retrieval of victims, and facilitated the airlift of the recovered bodies aboard a PAF S-70i Black Hawk helicopter for identification and turnover to their families in Malapatan, Sarangani.

Malapatan Mayor Salway Sumbo Jr. expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), PNP, PAF, medical personnel, barangay officials, purok leaders, volunteers, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region XII, and Sarangani Governor Rogelio "Ruel" D. Pacquiao for their support during the rescue and recovery operations. He also extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

Authorities identified the 10 fatalities as Alejandro Maladian, Bina Binaton Maladian, Jordan Binaton Maladian, Weljay Maladian, Bonbon Cawsri, Therd Yaton Dawang, Prince Yaton Dawang, Save Yaton Dawang, Daniel Binaton Dawang, and Ricky Ben, who was declared dead on arrival.

Meanwhile, relief goods were airlifted to residents who remain stranded in the affected area as emergency responders continue to navigate hazardous terrain and unstable slopes to reach isolated communities and deliver much-needed assistance.