In recent weeks, the island of Mindanao in the Philippines has been severely affected by catastrophic flooding and landslides, resulting in widespread devastation, displacement, and loss of life. As of mid-July, the situation remains dire, with ongoing disruptions and emergency responses struggling to keep up with the scale of the disaster.

The death toll from the floods and landslides has tragically risen to 14, with the possibility of further casualties as rescue operations continue. The provinces of Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Zamboanga del Norte are among the hardest hit. In Lanao del Norte alone, several towns have been submerged, leaving thousands of residents homeless and in urgent need of assistance. Local authorities have confirmed that rescue and relief operations are ongoing, but the persistent adverse weather conditions are complicating their efforts.

The flooding and landslides have caused significant disruptions across Mindanao, affecting transportation networks, utilities, and communication systems. Major roads and bridges have been rendered impassable, isolating communities and hampering the delivery of aid. The Philippine government has mobilized various agencies to coordinate the response and provide support to affected areas. However, the extent of the damage is vast, and restoring normalcy will be a long-term challenge. Preliminary estimates suggest that the damages could run into millions of pesos, although a comprehensive assessment is still underway.

The Philippine government, along with local government units (LGUs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), is working tirelessly to address the immediate needs of the affected population. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate displaced families, and relief goods such as food, water, and medical supplies are being distributed. In Misamis Occidental, the provincial government has declared a state of calamity to expedite the release of funds and resources for disaster response. There is a pressing need for urgent action to support the victims and rebuild the damaged infrastructure.

The severe weather conditions in Mindanao have been attributed to the southwest monsoon, which has brought heavy rains and strong winds to the region. This weather pattern, coupled with the geographical features of the island, has made Mindanao particularly vulnerable to flooding and landslides. The southwest monsoon is expected to continue affecting the area, potentially exacerbating the situation. This highlights the need for enhanced disaster preparedness and climate resilience measures in Mindanao and other susceptible regions in the Philippines.

The Makakalikasan – Nature Party Philippines has issued a public statement expressing its deepest condolences and solidarity with the families and communities affected by the recent landslides and devastating floods in Mindanao, particularly in Zamboanga and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The tragic loss of lives and the displacement of tens of thousands of families highlight the urgent need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and sustainable environmental policies.

The party’s statement emphasizes the connection between climate change and the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in Mindanao. Recent studies have shown a clear link between climate change and heavy rainfall, now 50% more intense, significantly elevating the risk of landslides and floods. Poor land management practices and deforestation have amplified the disaster’s impact. The party calls for recognizing the climate emergency in Mindanao and highlights the adverse effects of extreme weather changes on agriculture, forestry, and fishery sectors, crucial for the region’s economy and food security.

The role of mining in exacerbating the flooding in Mindanao is also significant. Weak warnings and inadequate land-use policies have compounded the impact of heavy rainfall, leading to devastating consequences. In February 2024, a landslide in a mining town killed nearly 100 people, prompting calls for stricter regulations and the shutdown of irresponsible mining operations. Mining activities, particularly in regions like Davao de Oro, have destabilized the land, making it more susceptible to landslides and severe flooding. Mining has led to deforestation, soil erosion, and the disruption of natural watercourses, all of which contribute to increased flood risks.

Corporate plantations have also played a significant role in altering land use in Mindanao, contributing to severe environmental degradation and increased flood risks. The expansion of monoculture plantations, such as palm oil and banana, has led to widespread deforestation, soil erosion, and the destruction of natural habitats. These land-use changes disrupt the hydrological cycle, reducing the land’s capacity to absorb water and exacerbating the severity of floods. The erosion caused by plantation activities contributes to the siltation of rivers and waterways, further reducing their capacity to handle large volumes of water.

The increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters have led to significant climate displacement, forcing families to leave their homes and communities. This displacement disrupts lives, erodes social cohesion, and places additional stress on already vulnerable populations. In response to this crisis, the Makakalikasan – Nature Party Philippines proposes the establishment of Green Communes. These are sustainable, self-sufficient communities designed to provide safe and resilient housing for those displaced by climate change. Green Communes integrate renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and community-based resource management to create a harmonious balance between human needs and environmental preservation.

The recent tragedies in Mindanao are a wake-up call for urgent action against environmental destruction. The Makakalikasan – Nature Party Philippines stands ready to work with all sectors of society to build a safer, more resilient, and sustainable future for the nation. The party urges the government and fellow citizens to take immediate and decisive action to prevent further loss of life and to protect the environment for future generations.