Natural disasters are not to be taken lightly. On February 6, 2024, a massive landslide occurred in Maco, Davao de Oro after heavy rainfall, claiming at least 68 lives, with 51 others still missing as of the latest update. 42 victims were locals, while 26 were mine employees working under Apex Mining.
On a more wholesome note, as the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) was conducting rescue operations in Barangay Masala, one of the barangays affected the worst by the disaster, one of their sniffer dogs named “Appa” made headlines in early February when he made significant contributions to the rescue of a 3-year-old girl.
With the efforts of personnel from the Philippine Army, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard, local government agencies, and staff from Apex Mining, as well as sniffer dogs such as Appa, the rescue of around 14 people was made possible. The dangers they face and the effort it takes to navigate harsh mud, rain, and impossible roads truly make their job a noble one.
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