Philippines Declares National Calamity as Typhoon Kalmaegi Death Toll Rises

The Philippines faces a deepening crisis. Typhoon Kalmaegi has killed at least 114 people. Hundreds more remain missing after devastating flash floods. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national calamity on Thursday.

This emergency declaration speeds up relief funding. It also aims to control prices and prevent hoarding of essential goods. The storm affected nearly two million people across the central provinces.

Rescue Efforts Intensify After Typhoon Kalmaegi’s Destruction

The scale of the disaster is immense. According to the Office of Civil Defence, more than 560,000 people were displaced. Nearly 450,000 sought safety in emergency shelters.

The province of Cebu suffered the heaviest losses. Officials reported 71 deaths there, mostly from drowning. Dozens more are still unaccounted for. Rescue teams continue their search in difficult conditions.

The situation was worsened by clogged rivers. Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro cited years of quarrying and substandard flood control projects. This echoes a recent national scandal over corrupt public works.

New Storm Threat Looms Over Disaster Response

The nation’s recovery efforts face a new challenge. Disaster officials warn of another tropical cyclone forming. It could strengthen into a super typhoon by early next week.

This new threat targets the northern Philippines. The potential impact could stretch already thin emergency resources. The country remains on high alert.

The recent earthquake in Cebu complicated the typhoon response. Thousands were already displaced from that September disaster. They were moved to sturdier shelters just before Kalmaegi hit.

The declaration of a national calamity underscores the severe impact of Typhoon Kalmaegi. With hundreds still missing and a new storm approaching, the Philippines confronts a prolonged and complex emergency. The nation’s resilience is being tested once again.

Thought you’d like to know

What areas were hit hardest by Typhoon Kalmaegi?

The central province of Cebu was the hardest hit. It recorded the highest number of deaths and missing persons. Nearby Negros Occidental also reported significant damage and dozens missing.

What does a ‘state of national calamity’ mean?

It allows the government to quickly release emergency funds. The declaration also enables price controls on basic necessities to protect affected citizens from profiteering.

Are more storms expected in the Philippines?

Yes, disaster officials are monitoring a new tropical cyclone. This potential super typhoon could threaten the northern part of the country early next week.

How many people were affected by the typhoon?

Official reports indicate nearly two million people were affected. More than 560,000 residents were displaced from their homes due to floods and landslides.

Did other incidents occur during the typhoon?

A Philippine air force helicopter crashed during a relief mission. The crash in Agusan del Sur killed six crew members, adding to the storm’s tragic death toll.