Major Bukidnon-Davao Highway Collapses Due to Landslide, Disrupting Crucial Transport Link

A major section of the Bukidnon-Davao highway, a vital transport link connecting Davao City, Bukidnon, and Cagayan de Oro City, collapsed at approximately 7 p.m. on July 17, 2026, rendering it impassable to all vehicles. The collapse was attributed to a landslide following weeks of continuous rainfall, which saturated the soil in the prone area. Dean Ortiz, spokesperson for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 11, stated in a phone interview that engineers are currently assessing the damage and conducting technical studies to restore access as soon as possible. Residents in the affected area were evacuated after signs of ground movement were observed. While several houses were partially buried by soil, no injuries were reported as of Saturday morning, July 18. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as persistent monsoon rains increase the risk of landslides in parts of Bukidnon and the Davao Region. Motorists are advised to take an alternate route via Datu Ladayon–Marahan–Katipunan, Cotabato, connecting to Camp 1 in Maramag, Bukidnon, which is expected to add about 30 minutes to travel time. This disruption highlights the ongoing infrastructure challenges in the region, particularly concerning the vulnerability of key transport routes to natural disasters. The closure is expected to have significant implications for regional trade, logistics, and the daily lives of residents.