The island nation has been hit hard by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left at least two people dead and forced the evacuation of more than 1.4 million individuals.
Officials reported that the powerful weather system caused extensive flash flooding, coastal inundation, landslides, and destructive high-velocity gusts, leading to the evacuation of millions of people nationwide.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams recorded floodwaters reaching the tops of houses and homes being swept away by strong flows.
Our team saved fourteen people who were trapped atop a house surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer explained. “A father 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, authorities confirmed at least two deaths: one from drowning in Catanduanes and a second individual who died when her house collapsed on Samar island.
Typhoon Strength and Forecast
The intense storm was downgraded to a typhoon early Monday as it crossed the main island, where the capital is located.
According to meteorological authorities, its maximum winds dropped from 185 km/h to 165 km/h, but gusts peaked at over 170 mph.
The storm system is projected to continue weakening while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Response and Recovery
The country’s emergency management agency stated efforts were ongoing to assess damage to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to accommodate 92,000 families.
Previous Storms and Climate Impact
The typhoon hit shortly following another severe storm, that claimed at least 224 people and left dozens unaccounted for before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for the missing persons had to be suspended on Sunday over risks for rescue workers.
The climate crisis is causing cyclones more intense and common. This typhoon marks the twenty-first storm to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers have found that the rate of intense cyclones striking the islands has risen by more than 100% in the past twenty years.
International estimates indicate that intense storms cause approximately US$3.5 million in losses to the country annually.
The nation’s leader issued a state of emergency last week due to the extensive devastation caused by Kalmaegi and anticipated impacts from the new storm.