The island nation was severely impacted by Super Typhoon Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of over a million residents.
Officials reported that the massive storm triggered widespread flash flooding, coastal inundation, mudslides, and destructive gale-force winds, leading to the relocation of millions of residents across the country.
Extensive Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and residences being swept away by the powerful currents.
Our team saved fourteen people who were trapped atop a house engulfed in flood in a flood-prone area,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. One resident also called in panic, saying his home’s roof was at risk of tearing away due to the storm. We saved him along with four family members.”
As of Monday morning, officials announced at least two deaths: a drowning victim in Catanduanes and another who died when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The super typhoon weakened to a severe tropical storm on Monday morning as it crossed the main island, home to the national capital.
According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts peaked at over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to lose strength while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency indicated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate tens of thousands of households.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck just days after Typhoon Kalmaegi, that claimed hundreds of lives with dozens unaccounted for prior to advancing toward Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Search operations for the missing persons were halted on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is making tropical storms stronger and frequent. This typhoon marks the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Researchers have found that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country every year.
The nation’s leader declared a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation caused by the prior typhoon and the expected damage from Fung-wong.
