A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Sitio Tigib, Barangay Gaway-gaway, San Remigio, Cebu on September 30, 2025, shaking the ground so violently that a nearby mountain cracked and a large portion of it slid into the river below. The collapse sent tons of rock and soil crashing down, forming a massive blockage that stopped the river’s flow. Residents said the tremor lasted only a few seconds but caused visible damage across the area. The fallen debris now forms a wall across the river, trapping water that continues to rise each hour.
Locals reported that shortly after the earthquake, they noticed the river’s current had completely stopped. Pools of muddy water began forming behind the landslide, and parts of the riverbank softened under the growing pressure. Many villagers fear that if the natural dam collapses, it could unleash a powerful surge of water downstream. As of now, there has been no confirmation whether local authorities are aware of the situation or have taken steps to assess the danger.
Residents estimate that the blocked river is less than 40 feet deep, which raises concerns that heavy rainfall could cause it to overflow. People living in nearby Barangay Tacup are especially on alert, fearing a potential flash flood if the water breaks through the landslide. Some families have begun preparing to move to higher ground, though communication in the area remains unstable following the quake. The sound of shifting rocks and trickling water has kept villagers restless and watchful through the nights that followed.
On the other side of Gaway-gaway, facing San Antonio, Cebu, residents have also voiced alarm about the situation. Some have captured photos and videos of the blocked river, while others continue to call for help to prevent a possible disaster. The aftermath of the September 30 quake has left the community isolated and uncertain, with several roads still covered in debris. Until authorities arrive to assess the risk, locals remain on edge, watching the rising waters and hoping the natural barrier will hold.