Five people were killed when a buli tree fell on their home in Barangay Saguinsinan, Pitogo, Quezon province, during the onslaught of Typhoon Ramil early Sunday morning, October 19.
Police reports said the fatalities include a 66-year-old grandfather, a couple, their 11-year-old child, and a five-month-old baby. Only the couple’s eldest child survived the tragedy.
According to authorities, the surviving child managed to call for help, but rescuers arrived too late. All five victims died from severe head injuries caused by the impact of the fallen tree.
Investigators believe the coconut tree snapped due to strong winds brought by Typhoon Ramil and crashed directly onto the family’s small house, instantly destroying it.
Local officials have already arranged the retrieval and temporary housing of the victims’ remains. The Quezon provincial government also pledged to shoulder funeral expenses and provide assistance to the lone survivor.
Typhoon Ramil hit parts of Luzon with heavy rains and strong winds, toppling trees and damaging several homes. Authorities continue to warn residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant as weather disturbances persist.
