Philippines Faces Catastrophic Impact from Five Tropical Cyclones: Over 9 Million Affected
- The Philippines faces significant challenges due to multiple tropical cyclones in one month.
- As of 14 November, over 9 million people, or about 2.4 million families, have been impacted by these storms.
- The extent of damage from these storms is still being assessed.
Situation Overview
The Philippines faces significant challenges due to multiple tropical cyclones in one month. These storms have affected millions, causing displacements, damaged homes, and ongoing flooding. In total, five tropical cyclones have entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), including the latest, Super Typhoon Usagi (local name Ofel), which hit Baggao, Cagayan on 14 November.
As of 14 November, over 9 million people, or about 2.4 million families, have been impacted by these storms. Currently, over 617,000 people are displaced. Of these, 160,000 people are in 590 evacuation centers (EC), while 460,000 people are staying in temporary locations. Many displaced individuals are unable to return home and are sleeping in open areas. Further changes in displacement figures are expected as new storms may approach.
Impact and Affected Areas
The extent of damage from these storms is still being assessed. Reports indicate that over 207,000 houses have been damaged across 17 of the 18 regions. Damage to infrastructure is estimated at US$179 million (PHP10.56 billion), though further validation is necessary by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Although many critical services have been restored, access may still be hindered by incoming storms.
Heavy rainfall has harmed the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk, especially in the Bicol region. Agricultural damage is estimated at US$119 million (PHP7 billion). The province of Camarines Sur experienced the most significant impact, with damages around $39 million (PHP2.3 billion), affecting over 33,000 hectares and impacting 34,260 individuals in the agriculture sector.