The combined impact of tropical cyclones #NikaPH, #OfelPH, and #PepitoPH has disrupted the lives of over 1.1 million individuals across Luzon, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). In its 8 a.m. report on Monday, November 18, 2024, the agency detailed the widespread devastation caused by flooding, power outages, and significant infrastructure damage.
A total of 1,145,942 individuals, or 295,576 families, were affected by the storms. Among them, 446,177 people sought refuge in 2,717 evacuation centers, while 238,894 opted to stay with relatives or in makeshift accommodations.
The Bicol Region bore the brunt of the disaster, still reeling from the aftermath of #KristinePH earlier this season. More than 1 million residents in the region were directly impacted. Authorities evacuated 132,006 families preemptively in the region to minimize casualties.
Significant infrastructure damage was reported, with 272 road sections and 101 bridges affected. As of Monday, 34 roads and 24 bridges remain impassable, complicating relief efforts. The agricultural sector also suffered, with estimated losses surpassing PHP 8.6 million, while infrastructure damages approached PHP 470 million.
To aid those affected, relief operations are ongoing. A total of 53,430 families have received assistance valued at PHP 49 million. However, officials noted that data on aid distribution in heavily affected regions, such as Bicol and CALABARZON, is still incomplete as of this writing.
The NDRRMC is working closely with local government units and non-government organizations to ensure that basic needs are met for displaced families. Temporary shelters are being reinforced to accommodate the influx of evacuees, and additional food and medical supplies are being dispatched to affected areas.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant as intermittent rain and strong winds may persist in certain regions. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned of possible landslides and further flooding in low-lying areas.
With the country in the thick of typhoon season, authorities stress the importance of disaster preparedness and community cooperation to mitigate risks and expedite recovery efforts. As relief operations continue, the focus remains on restoring normalcy for the millions of Filipinos affected by this series of storms.