MANILA, Philippines — Two powerful typhoons in less than a week have unleashed devastation across the Philippines, leaving behind a heartbreaking scene of flooded towns, collapsed homes, and families struggling to survive.
Typhoon Fung-Wong (Uwan) roared ashore on November 9 as a super typhoon, bringing destructive winds of up to 185 km/h and gusts reaching 215 km/h. The storm struck communities still reeling from the earlier onslaught of Typhoon Kalmaegi (Tino), which tore through the Visayas just days before, killing nearly 200 people and leaving tens of thousands homeless.
According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the twin disasters have caused massive flooding, landslides, and widespread power outages. In coastal areas, storm surges swallowed entire villages, forcing thousands to flee with little more than the clothes on their backs.
For Mary Ann, a 34-year-old mother from Southern Leyte, the past week has been a nightmare. “We didn’t know if we would have anywhere to return to,” she said softly, cradling her five-month-old baby in an evacuation center. “We’re grateful to be alive, but we’ve lost everything. All we hope for now is food, water, and the strength to rebuild.”
With access roads blocked and communication lines down, responders are racing against time to reach isolated communities.
Plan International Pilipinas has deployed emergency teams to the hardest-hit areas to conduct rapid needs assessments and deliver clean water, hygiene kits, and menstrual health supplies to affected families.
“The situation is dire—children and young women are in grave danger,” said Pebbles Sanchez-Ogang, Executive Director of Plan International Pilipinas. “In every disaster, girls are often the most vulnerable. They need safe spaces, care, and hope. We’re working around the clock to reach them, but we need everyone’s help.”
The Philippines, battered by an average of 20 tropical cyclones each year, is once again facing the harsh reality of a changing climate—one that brings stronger, deadlier storms with each passing season.
As the rains subside, the nation’s next battle begins: helping survivors rebuild their homes, their hopes, and their future.| – Rex Garcia, BNN Integrated News
