This is the dramatic moment an excavator and its driver were swept away by a fast-flowing muddy river in the Philippines.

Footage shows the heavy construction machine being carried by the strong current while its operator remained inside the cabin in North Cotabato on December 30.

Concerned residents and colleagues were seen following the struggling digger along a concrete path in Luna Sur Village, Makilala, around 3 pm local time.

Moments later, the excavator managed to manoeuvre back onto dry land, bringing the operator to safety.

Authorities confirmed the 21-year-old driver was unharmed during the incident.

The equipment was being used for a local flood control project in the area.

State weather bureau PAGASA said the freak weather in Mindanao at the time was caused by easterly winds.