Manila, Philippines – November 5, 2025 – Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a state of emergency following the devastating impact of Typhoon Kalmaegi, which has claimed at least 114 lives and left hundreds missing across the central provinces. The catastrophic storm, one of the deadliest this year, has left widespread destruction in its wake and displaced hundreds of thousands of residents.
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What Happened
Typhoon Kalmaegi swept through the Philippines earlier this week, bringing torrential rains, strong winds, and flash floods that inundated communities and destroyed homes — particularly in Cebu and nearby provinces. Most fatalities were caused by drowning due to flash flooding, while many others remain unaccounted for.
The storm exited the Philippines on Wednesday, moving toward the South China Sea, but not before leaving a trail of devastation behind. Officials estimate that around 2 million people were affected nationwide, with more than 560,000 displaced — including 450,000 who have taken shelter in evacuation centers.
In response, President Marcos declared a “State of National Disaster” to fast-track the release of emergency funds, prevent price gouging and food hoarding, and streamline rescue and recovery operations.
Toll and Ongoing Challenges
The worst damage occurred in Cebu, where swollen rivers burst their banks and submerged entire residential areas. Residents were seen climbing onto rooftops to escape rising waters, calling for rescue as flood levels surged overnight.
According to the Civil Protection Office, at least 71 people in Cebu have been confirmed dead, 65 remain missing, and 69 others are injured. Neighboring Negros Occidental reported 62 missing persons and severe property losses.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro said local authorities did everything possible to prepare for the typhoon but were caught off-guard by the intensity of the flash floods. She also acknowledged that corruption scandals and poor flood-control infrastructure worsened the disaster’s impact, sparking public anger and renewed calls for government accountability.
The province was still recovering from a 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck on September 30, 2025, killing 79 people. Many quake survivors were relocated to sturdier shelters just before Kalmaegi hit, a move that likely saved many lives in northern Cebu, which bore the brunt of the storm’s winds but escaped the worst flooding.
Other Disruptions
Beyond the loss of life, the storm wreaked havoc on transportation and commerce. The Philippine Coast Guard suspended ferry and fishing operations amid rough seas, stranding more than 3,500 passengers and cargo truck drivers at about 100 ports. Meanwhile, 186 domestic flights were canceled due to the storm’s impact, further isolating affected areas.
The Philippines and Natural Disasters
The Philippines ranks among the most disaster-prone countries in the world, enduring about 20 typhoons annually and numerous earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The devastation caused by Typhoon Kalmaegi highlights the nation’s ongoing struggle to build resilient infrastructure and strengthen disaster preparedness in vulnerable communities.
Conclusion
As the Philippines confronts the aftermath of Typhoon Kalmaegi, relief agencies, local governments, and volunteers are working tirelessly to deliver food, water, and medical aid to displaced families. The full extent of the tragedy is still unfolding, but efforts remain focused on rescue operations, emergency shelter, and long-term recovery.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.