In a tragic turn of events, the death toll from a devastating landslide that struck the southern Philippines has risen to 54, according to the provincial government's latest update on Sunday. Occurring near a gold mine in Maco town, in the province of Davao de Oro, the landslide engulfed homes and vehicles, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

Rescue workers have been working tirelessly since Tuesday night to locate and retrieve survivors, but the treacherous conditions caused by heavy rain, thick mud, and the persistent threat of further landslides have hindered their efforts.

The provincial government of Davao de Oro confirmed via a Facebook post that the previous death toll of 37 had been revised upwards to 54, as more bodies were discovered amidst the debris. Additionally, 32 individuals have been reported as injured due to the landslide.

With a tally of 63 people still unaccounted for, the province acknowledges that the number remains unverified. Gasping for hope in the midst of this tragedy, the residents eagerly await any news of their missing loved ones.

Edward Macapili, an official from Davao de Oro, stressed the challenges faced by the rescue teams, who have been braving unfavorable weather conditions in their search efforts. Over 300 dedicated personnel have been involved in the rescue mission, hoping against hope to find survivors amidst the wreckage.

In spite of the daunting circumstances, the rescue operations resumed on Sunday morning, with persistent efforts to locate any remaining survivors. While the chances of finding anyone alive diminish with each passing hour, the determination to bring closure to grieving families and offer assistance to those affected remains unwavering.

The catastrophic landslide is believed to have been triggered by the torrential rains that have relentlessly battered Davao de Oro in recent weeks. The region has endured significant hardships, battling with floods and landslides that have disrupted the lives of its residents.

As the search for survivors continues, the affected communities remain united in their grief, praying for strength and solace during these trying times. Authorities are working diligently to provide necessary support and aid to those affected by this devastating disaster, as they strive to rebuild lives shattered by the forces of nature.

This heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by communities in landslide-prone areas, emphasizing the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and early warning systems to mitigate such catastrophes in the future.