Islamic preacher killed by falling tree in Maguindanao del Sur

DAVAO CITY — An Islamic preacher, Ustadz Abdulbayan Banto, was killed when a large tree fell on his small house in Barangay Buayan, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, on Tuesday afternoon.

According to reports, Banto died after being trapped under the fallen tree and debris from his house. He was eventually pulled out by rescuers but was declared dead at the scene.

The tree is believed to have been toppled by strong winds that swept through Datu Piang and neighboring towns in Maguindanao del Sur. The winds, accompanied by heavy rains, caused significant damage in the area, uprooting trees and affecting several homes.

Banto’s relatives immediately followed Islamic tradition by burying him within 24 hours of his death, as required by religious customs.

Local authorities continue to assess the damage caused by the storm in the region, and relief efforts are underway to assist affected communities.