The island nation was severely impacted by Intense Cyclone Fung-wong, which left a minimum of two fatalities and displaced more than 1.4 million individuals.
Authorities reported that the powerful weather system caused widespread sudden floods, coastal inundation, mudslides, and fierce high-velocity gusts, prompting the relocation of millions of residents nationwide.
Widespread Damage and Rescue Efforts
In Pandan, Catanduanes, one of the worst-hit regions, disaster response teams documented rising waters reaching the tops of houses and residences washed out by strong flows.
Our team rescued 14 individuals stranded on the roof surrounded by water in a low-lying neighbourhood,” a disaster-mitigation officer stated. One resident frantically contacted us, saying the roof of his house was about to be ripped off by the wind. We saved him along with four family members.”
By Monday, officials announced two fatalities: one from drowning on the island and a second individual who died after her home gave way on Samar island.
Storm Intensity and Forecast
The intense storm was downgraded to a severe tropical storm early Monday while moving over the main island, where the capital is located.
According to the state weather service, its maximum winds decreased from 115 mph to 102 mph, but gusts were still reaching over 170 mph.
The cyclone is expected to continue weakening while heading in the direction of Taiwan.
Relief and Assessment
The country’s emergency management agency stated it was still working to evaluate destruction to infrastructure and homes.
Roughly 6,000 evacuation centres have been opened to temporarily house tens of thousands of households.
Recent Context and Climate Impact
Fung-wong struck shortly following Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people with another 135 missing before moving on to Vietnam, where it killed five.
Search operations for those still missing had to be suspended recently over risks to emergency personnel.
The climate crisis is causing tropical storms more intense and common. Fung-wong is the 21st typhoon to impact the nation in 2025.
Researchers report that the frequency of super-typhoons striking the islands has risen doubled over the last two decades.
International estimates indicate that severe weather events result in an average of millions in dollars in damage for the Philippines every year.
The Philippine president declared an emergency declaration on Thursday due to the severe damage caused by Kalmaegi and the expected damage from the new storm.
