Butuan city: The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) here, in a special session on Sunday, passed a resolution declaring Butuan City under a state of calamity.
According to Philippines News Agency, under Resolution No. 17-061-2025, the declaration was made in response to the severe impacts of Typhoon Tino (international name Kalmaegi) and was further compounded by Super Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-wong). The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) had earlier recommended this declaration after evaluating the extensive damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods across multiple barangays. The Sangguniang Panlungsod approved the resolution unanimously during its special session.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to official advisories as the city ramps up its disaster response operations. The CDRRMC data reveals that 44,317 residents in 33 barangays have been directly affected by the recent calamities, with 3,615 families or 13,309 individuals having evacuated due to flooding threats. Of those displaced, 3,496 families or 12,801 individuals found temporary shelter in evacuation centers, while 119 families or 508 individuals stayed with relatives.
The City Social Welfare and Development Department reported that relief goods have been provided to a total of 2,435 affected families. The agricultural damage in Butuan City is estimated at PHP4,546,973.47, and 21 houses were damaged due to the strong winds and heavy rains brought by Uwan.
The city government, through the Public Information Office (PIO), emphasized that the state of calamity declaration is not just a formality but a measure aimed at expediting assistance to affected families and communities. With this declaration, the city government can swiftly implement emergency and recovery programs, monitor the prices of basic necessities, and facilitate easier access to aid from the national government. It also ensures the prompt response to health needs and the immediate release of necessary funds.
Residents are advised to stay alert for potential heavy rains as Typhoon Uwan remains within the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
