While Severe Tropical Storm Paeng (international name: Nalgae) may not have been the strongest typhoon ever experienced in recent memory, it covered the entire archipelago and disrupted travel among Filipinos wishing to be reunited with their families on All Saints Day. It also affected the plans of many who saw a fine opportunity to travel after more than two years of involuntary restrictions imposed by the coronavirus pandemic.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) provides a compelling account on Typhoon Paeng in its Oct. 31 report:
“More than 2,000,000 people were affected by Severe Tropical Storm Nalgae (locally named Paeng) that made initial landfall in Catanduanes, Bicol region, on Oct. 29. All 17 regions were affected by strong winds and heavy rains which have resulted in landslides and over 554 flooding incidents in various areas across the country…According to government reports, at least 863,000 people are seeking temporary shelter inside 2,801 evacuation centers or with their friends and family. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has reported that at least 110 people died (79 confirmed, 31 for validation), 70 were injured and 66 are still missing…Of the 119 airports and seaports affected, only around 23 percent have resumed their operations. Lifeline services (power, water, and telecommunications) affected is currently being restored with the support of the private sector.”
Due to the storm’s massive effects, a state of calamity was declared in 55 areas in Bicol Region (Region 5), Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and SOCCSKSARGEN (Region 12), according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
Speaking in Noveleta, Cavite last Oct. 31, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. said that declaring a one-year state of national calamity, as proposed by the NDRRMC, was “not necessary” and emphasized the importance of efficient local response.
Government and service-oriented organizations have conveyed over US$877,000 (₱51 million) worth of humanitarian assistance to affected communities. Line departments are providing aid within their respective response clusters. For example, the Department of Health has conveyed water disinfection materials and medical supplies through its regional offices. Private organizations have also responded by organizing independent fund-raising and relief goods repacking operations.
The Department of Agriculture has thus far reported $22.34 million (₱1.3 billion) loss in agriculture equivalent to 66,963 metric tons. Super Typhoon Noru also struck in late September in areas battered by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng. The bulk of losses were in the rice sector and high value crops. Farmers and fisherfolk affected by the typhoon also need assistance not just in terms of food and shelter but in resuming their productive activities.
Meantime, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) called for volunteers to assist the agency’s Quick Response Teams (QRT) in the repacking of relief goods that will be distributed to families affected by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng.
Once again, the Bayanihan spirit comes to the fore as the primary driver of relief and rehabilitation efforts. Building back better is facilitated by concerted community efforts.