Negros occidental: Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his visit to areas severely impacted by Typhoon Tino over the weekend. Marcos conducted an inspection in the municipalities of Moises Padilla and La Castellana, which were among the hardest hit in central Negros.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President’s commitment to aid was evident during his visit, accompanied by key Cabinet officials who joined him in assessing the damage and needs on the ground. In La Castellana, President Marcos led a situation briefing with the mayors of the affected local government units (LGUs). Other severely affected areas include Hinigaran, Binalbagan, Isabela, and La Carlota City.
Governor Lacson emphasized the importance of the President’s presence and the national government’s support, stating that it provided hope and strength to those affected by the typhoon. He expressed his gratitude in a social media post, underscoring the national support during this challenging time.
Data from the provincial government indicates that Typhoon Tino impacted 806,665 individuals from 233,437 families across at least 17 LGUs. The storm caused complete destruction or damage to 13,036 houses and partially damaged 105,936 others. The estimated damage and losses to agriculture, fishery, livestock, infrastructures, and schools amount to PHP1.85 million.
In response, the national government has released an initial PHP95 million in assistance to Negros Occidental and the six worst-affected LGUs. This includes PHP50 million for the provincial government, PHP10 million each for La Carlota City and the municipalities of La Castellana and Moises Padilla, and PHP5 million each for Binalbagan, Hinigaran, and Isabela.
La Castellana Mayor A±ejo Nicor expressed his appreciation for the President’s visit, which brought much-needed attention to the town’s plight. Mayor Nicor reported that La Castellana is currently sheltering 1,657 families with 5,819 members in 27 evacuation centers. The town also reported 3,629 destroyed houses and 6,832 damaged, alongside PHP184.6 million in agricultural losses.
Mayor Nicor highlighted the scale of destruction, noting it has surpassed the municipality’s capacity to respond, necessitating urgent national government intervention. La Castellana continues to endure challenges as it recovers from both Typhoon Tino and the ongoing effects of the Kanlaon Volcano eruptions over the past year.
