Baguio city: Emergency and relief operations continue across the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) as Super Typhoon Uwan (international name: Fung-Wong) displaced 3,723 families or 11,644 individuals, since it began lashing the region Sunday night.
According to Philippines News Agency, 2,430 families are currently housed in 207 evacuation centers, while others are staying with relatives or friends. DSWD-CAR Regional Director Maria Aplaten stated that some residents were preemptively evacuated, while others fled their homes as the typhoon’s strong winds and torrential rains intensified.
Aplaten assured that there are sufficient provisions for affected families, including food packs, ready-to-eat meals, kitchen and sleeping kits, as well as tents amounting to more than PHP93 million in resources and quick response funds. The typhoon knocked out power in several provinces, including Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province.
The Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) reported that its linemen remain on red alert to restore electricity amid widespread damage. ‘We ask for the public’s understanding and cooperation. Please stay away from damaged power lines and report them immediately,’ said BENECO spokesperson Laarni Ilagan.
The Department of Public Works and Highways-Cordillera (DPWH-CAR) also reported multiple road closures due to landslides, mudflows, and fallen trees. Clearing operations are ongoing to reopen vital routes for relief and emergency transport. Personnel from the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and local government units are also on high alert, assisting in rescue, evacuation, and road clearing operations.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong earlier urged residents to stay indoors for their safety. “We have alarmed the siren last night as a reminder to everyone to head home and police mobile vehicles were utilized for free rides to transport stranded residents at the central business district,” he said in a media interview.
Several municipal halls, provincial capitols, and commercial establishments, including SM City Baguio and Supreme Hotel, have opened free charging stations and overnight parking for residents. ‘The spirit of binnadang (helping one another) remains strong among the Cordillerans,’ Aplaten said, commending community-led acts of kindness.
Meanwhile, Benguet Gov. Melchor Diclas has extended the suspension of government work until Tuesday as recovery efforts continue.
