Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday praised local governments, first responders, and volunteers for their swift action as Super Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-wong) tore across Luzon, saying preemptive evacuations carried out were key to saving lives. ‘I want to thank our local governments, first responders, and volunteers for acting quickly and working together to keep our people safe. The preemptive evacuations you carried out made all the difference,’ Marcos said in a social media post. ‘Napakalaking bagay ng inyong maagap na pagkilos (Your prompt action made a huge difference).’

According to Philippines News Agency, government data show that Uwan, touted as one of the most powerful storms to hit the country this year, forced more than 160,000 families, mainly in Bicol, Quezon, and Central Luzon, to flee their homes and are currently in various evacuation centers. The Office of Civil Defense reported four fatalities, with two still being validated, and widespread flooding in Pangasinan and Aurora.

Uwan made landfall over Dinalungan, Aurora, on Sunday night, packing destructive winds and intense rains that caused landslides, power outages, and extensive damage to crops and infrastructure. Malaca±ang said Marcos has ordered non-stop relief and rehabilitation operations and directed agencies to stay on full alert for post-storm recovery and monitoring.