The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials stated that the massive storm triggered widespread sudden floods, storm surges, landslides, and fierce gale-force winds, prompting the evacuation of 1.4 million people nationwide.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, a severely affected area, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters climbing to rooftop levels and homes washed out by strong flows.
Our team saved 14 individuals who were trapped on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” an emergency official explained. One resident also called in panic, reporting his home’s roof was about to be ripped off by the wind. We rescued him and four relatives.”
As of Monday morning, officials confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning on the island and another who died when her house collapsed in eastern Samar.
Storm Intensity and Projected Path
The super typhoon weakened to a typhoon early Monday while moving over the main island, where the capital is located.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, though wind bursts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is projected to continue weakening while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction on buildings and roads.
Approximately 6,000 evacuation centres were activated 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 and left another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, causing five deaths there.
Searches for the missing persons had to be suspended recently due to safety concerns to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones stronger and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to hit the Philippines in 2025.
Scientists report that the rate of super-typhoons hitting the Philippines has increased by more than 100% over the last two decades.
Global assessments suggest that intense storms result in approximately millions in dollars in damage for the Philippines annually.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday because of the severe damage from Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.
