NDRRMC: Miner trapped in Benguet tunnel

Rescue efforts are underway for a miner trapped in a cave-in caused by rains and winds from typhoon "Chedeng" (Songda), the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said Saturday. In its 8 a.m. update, the NDRRMC also said the death toll from Chedeng had gone up to at least two. The NDRRMC said the cave-in occurred near the Manganese Elementary School in Sitio Liwliw in Tuba, Benguet, at noon Friday. Small-scale miner Joey Marcos, 20, was trapped inside but alive, even as continuous soil erosion is delaying rescue efforts. As of 5 p.m. Friday, the NDRRMC said Baguio City Emergency Medical Service teams sought assistance from a Philex Mines' search-and-rescue team and disaster management officials from Benguet. The NDRRMC also said two have so far been confirmed dead – Jaime Torillos, 70, of Gigmoto in Catanduanes; and Emmanuel Macaro, 27, of Vinzonz, Camarines Norte. Estimated damage to property was placed at P11.462 million. As of 6 a.m. Saturday, the NDRRMC said "Chedeng" hadaffected 67,707 families or 313,433 people in 443 villages in 46 towns and six cities in 10 provinces. — LBG, GMA News