Sinkhole in Toboso deepens as MGB inspection looms

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), along with the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), were scheduled to inspect a suspected sinkhole in Sitio Bairan, Barangay General Luna, Toboso, Negros Occidental on Wednesday.

Hospicio Carbajosa Jr., head of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), said authorities are conducting daily monitoring as the ground continues to soften progressively.

The sinkhole has deepened from an initial 6 feet to 11 feet.

“It increased five feet in just five days,” Carbajosa said.

Cracks have also expanded to 4 feet wide, with the affected portion about 5 meters from the main subsidence zone, while the diameter has grown to approximately 60 meters.

Although the area is relatively isolated with only four to five houses, it sits near a national road frequently used by sugarcane-loaded trucks.

The affected road has been closed since Monday pending MGB assessment findings, with caution tape installed to restrict access and residents advised to use an alternate route.

One unoccupied house within the 60-meter diameter has sustained damage to its flooring, walls, and posts, with construction temporarily halted. The lot owner has offered an alternative lot for the occupant near the national highway.

Carbajosa said the area’s limestone soil, which is prone to forming underground cavities and cave systems, likely contributed to the subsidence, compounded by continuous rainfall from Feb. 8 to 11.

He stressed, however, that the situation is not considered alarming as long as the area remains restricted, and that authorities are prepared to act once official findings are released.

Residents have been informed of the risks and are cooperating with local officials.