MANILA – Severe weather conditions triggered by Tropical Depression Wilma, combined with a shear line and the northeast monsoon (amihan), have significantly impacted the Philippines, affecting over 13,000 families. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported on Sunday that the adverse conditions have disrupted lives across six regions, 14 provinces, and 34 cities and municipalities.
The agency’s latest situational assessment indicates that 13,470 families, comprising 35,401 individuals, have been affected. In a positive development, authorities have confirmed no initial reports of casualties or critical infrastructure damage. The primary impact has been on maritime transportation, with widespread disruptions across the nation’s seaports.
According to the NDRRMC, operations at 118 seaports have been suspended due to hazardous conditions. This has resulted in significant travel interruptions, stranding an estimated 8,447 passengers. The maritime gridlock also affects commerce, leaving 2,688 rolling cargoes stationary and stranding 98 vessels and 24 motorbancas (small local boats). Air travel, however, remains unaffected, with all airports operating normally.
As a precautionary measure, a large-scale evacuation was undertaken, moving 14,719 individuals to safety from the most vulnerable areas, including MIMAROPA, Regions 7, 8, CARAGA, and the Negros Island Region. The council documented eight flooded areas across Regions 5, 8, and CARAGA. Additionally, seven road sections have been affected by the weather, though all remain passable with caution.
The Philippine government has mobilized immediate relief efforts, distributing assistance valued at approximately Php76,472 to support displaced and affected families as they contend with the aftermath of the severe weather systems.