The Philippines is reeling from the devastation caused by Typhoon Kalmigi, one of the strongest storms to strike the country this year. Officials confirmed that at least 114 people lost their lives, with the majority of casualties reported in Cebu, the nation’s most densely populated island.
Authorities also reported 127 people missing and 82 injured, while local officials in Cebu claimed an additional 28 deaths that have not yet been included in the official tally released by the National Civil Defense Office.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the scale of destruction compelled him to declare a national disaster. He noted that the decision was also influenced by forecasts of another approaching storm, Typhoon Awan, which could hit the Philippines over the weekend.
Typhoon Kalmigi exited the Philippines early Thursday morning and is now heading toward central Vietnam. Meteorologists warn that the system is intensifying and is expected to make landfall in Vietnam on Friday, raising concerns of further damage in the region.
The declaration of a national disaster allows the Philippine government to mobilize emergency funds and resources more quickly, as communities across the country begin recovery efforts amid fears of another looming storm.