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Death Toll Rises as Tropical Storm Enteng Strikes the Philippines

TS Enteng to bring monsoon rains to Palawan

MANILA – The aftermath of Tropical Storm Enteng (internationally known as Yagi) and the southwest monsoon has left a tragic toll of 15 lives lost across the Philippines. During a situation briefing at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) office in Camp Aguinaldo, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. received updates on the disaster’s impact.

Cesar Idio, Operations Service Director of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), reported that the province of Rizal suffered the highest casualties, with eight fatalities. Cebu City, Northern Samar, and Naga City each recorded two deaths, while Negros Occidental reported one. Additionally, 21 people remain missing, and 15 others have sustained injuries, with these figures pending validation.

The storm has affected a staggering 1.7 million individuals, or approximately 442,804 families, particularly devastating the Bicol region, followed closely by Central Luzon, Eastern Visayas, and Metro Manila. The agricultural sector has not been spared, facing damages exceeding PHP 350 million, impacting over 13,600 farmers and resulting in production losses of nearly 15 metric tons across almost 9,000 hectares of farmland.
Government Response and Relief Efforts

In response to the crisis, PHP 33 million in food and non-food items have been distributed to those affected. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is actively stockpiling additional supplies nationwide to prepare for future storms. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized the importance of replenishing resources.

President Marcos reassured the public of the government’s vigilance. “We are continuing to monitor all the situations everywhere,” he stated, expressing hopes for timely assistance once the storm passes. He also directed agencies to remain alert for potential flooding, especially near water reservoirs.

Despite Enteng having moved out of the Philippine Area of Responsibility, heavy rainfall persists in some regions. “We might be forced to release water if the heavy rainfall continues,” Marcos warned, urging close monitoring of the situation.
Infrastructure and Future Threats

The damage to infrastructure is currently estimated at PHP 54.26 million, with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reporting significant impacts in Central and Eastern Visayas, as well as the Cordillera region. Notably, certain roadways, such as the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge, are impassable due to flooding.

As the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasts the potential arrival of two more tropical cyclones next week, President Marcos reminded agencies of the need for heightened preparedness. He cited the rapid development of weather systems due to climate change, recalling the devastating impacts of Super Typhoons Yolanda and Odette in previous years.
Naval Response

In a proactive measure, the Philippine Navy has deployed disaster response teams to assist in ongoing relief efforts. Commander John Percie Alcos announced that teams rescued 103 evacuees and delivered essential supplies to designated evacuation centers. The navy’s swift action underscores the collaborative efforts across government agencies to mitigate the disaster’s effects.

As the nation grapples with the repercussions of Tropical Storm Enteng, the focus remains on immediate relief efforts and preparations for future weather challenges. The government’s commitment to monitoring and responding to the needs of affected communities continues as the country confronts the realities of a changing climate.