Photo credit: PNP

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has raised the red alert as Typhoon Carina, along with the combined effects of the southwest monsoon and Tropical Cyclone Butchoy, continues to wreak havoc across the Philippines. As of July 25, 2024, the situation remains dire, with widespread devastation and significant challenges facing affected communities.

Typhoon Carina's impact is evident in the grim statistics: 14 lives have been lost, 2 people are injured, and another 2 are missing. The storm has affected nearly 1,000 barangays, displacing 245,298 families, which translates to a staggering 1,115,272 individuals. Many of these families are now seeking refuge in 263 evacuation centers, housing 12,199 families and 51,726 individuals. Additionally, preemptive evacuations have moved 1,242 families, or 3,744 people, to safety outside these centers.

The infrastructure has also taken a heavy hit. The power and communication lines are down in several areas, with 27 power interruptions and 2 communication breakdowns reported. Water supply interruptions are affecting 4 locations. The transportation network is severely disrupted, with 49 roads and 8 bridges rendered impassable. Furthermore, one airport and 18 seaports are non-operational, significantly impacting travel and trade.

Agricultural and infrastructure damages are substantial. The agriculture sector faces losses amounting to Php 9,706,852.34, impacting 1,453 farmers and fisherfolk. Infrastructure damage is estimated at Php 793,551.48, with 216 houses partially damaged and 76 completely destroyed.

In response to the calamity, several regions have declared a state of calamity, including MIMAROPA (Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro), Region 11 (Brgy. Butuan, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental), Region 12 (Kabacan and Pikit, Cotabato), and NCR. Relief efforts are in full swing, with Php 3,785,420,885.60 worth of food and non-food items prepared at OCD and DSWD Disaster Response Centers. Assistance worth Php 32,913,625.04 has already been provided to those in need.

Health logistics are also a priority, with Php 73,851,900.40 worth of supplies ready from the DOH Central Office and various regional health offices. The logistics network is bolstered by 54 land assets from the OCD and WFP. Search, rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing, with 479 personnel deployed and an additional 5,871 available for deployment as needed.

The road to recovery is long, but the coordinated efforts of various agencies and the resilience of the affected communities provide a beacon of hope amidst the devastation. As the nation braces for more challenges ahead, the spirit of bayanihan remains strong, guiding the way towards rebuilding and healing.