Philippines – November 10, 2025 – The Philippines is grappling with the aftermath of Typhoon Fung-wong, which swept across Luzon with winds up to 185 km/h (115 mph) and gusts reaching 230 km/h (143 mph), killing at least two people, displacing 1.4 million residents, and leaving widespread destruction in its wake.

Rescue and recovery operations began Monday morning as the government lifted travel restrictions and coordinated emergency relief. Thousands of personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard, police, and military are assisting evacuees and clearing debris from affected towns.

Widespread Flooding and Infrastructure Damage

The typhoon made landfall Sunday evening in Aurora province, unleashing heavy rain, flooding, and landslides. In the eastern town of Dipaculao, rescue workers used axes and heavy machinery to remove felled trees and damaged roofs blocking roads.

“We’re seeing many damaged houses and some of our main roads were not passable due to landslides,” said rescue worker Geofry Parrocha.

Northern Luzon experienced severe flooding across 132 villages, with at least 1,000 homes damaged. In Catanduanes, floodwaters claimed one life, while another person died in eastern Samar when her house collapsed. Nearly 320,000 people remain in evacuation shelters, and schools and government offices were closed in several provinces.

Impact on Transport and Utilities

The storm caused widespread power outages, with thousands of residents in Dipaculao left without electricity. Over 325 domestic and 61 international flights were canceled, while rough seas stranded over 6,600 passengers and cargo workers.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had earlier declared a state of emergency, as the Philippines continues to recover from Typhoon Kalmaegi, which struck central provinces earlier, killing at least 224 people.

Ongoing Rainfall and Threats

Even as Fung-wong weakened over the South China Sea, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned of up to 200 mm (8 in) of rainfall in provinces including La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, and Zambales, with gale-force winds continuing to threaten coastal and upland areas.

Taiwan’s weather authorities have also issued warnings as the storm is projected to reach the island by Thursday, bringing heavy rains and gusty winds.

Climate Change and Intensifying Storms

The Philippines experiences roughly 20 typhoons annually, and scientists warn that human-driven climate change is increasing their intensity. Warmer oceans fuel stronger storms, and a hotter atmosphere holds more moisture, resulting in heavier rainfall and flash flooding.

Relief and Recovery Efforts

Rescue crews have been clearing debris from roads, restoring electricity where possible, and distributing aid to affected communities. In Guinobatan, Albay province, streets turned into torrents, leaving residents stranded and homes inundated.

Officials emphasized that recovery is ongoing, with relief operations, disaster-response teams, and local governments working together to restore normalcy.

“While the typhoon has passed, its rains still pose a danger in certain areas, including metropolitan Manila,” warned Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV of the Office of Civil Defense.