Tropical Storm Fengshen has devastated parts of the Philippines, resulting in five fatalities and two individuals reported missing. The storm has caused extensive flooding and landslides across multiple regions, significantly impacting Luzon and Mindanao islands.
Impact of Tropical Storm Fengshen
As the storm swept through the country on October 19, 2025, many residents were forced to evacuate their homes in search of safety. The government has activated emergency shelters to accommodate those displaced by the severe weather.
Casualties and Damages
- Five members of one family were killed in Quezon province when a tree collapsed onto their home.
- Two individuals are missing after a landslide in Bukidnon, Mindanao, where a road was blocked by debris.
- Heavy flooding has been reported on the islands of Samar and Panay, impacting several barangays.
In Quezon, a teenage boy was the sole survivor of the tragic incident. As rescue teams worked diligently, they managed to retrieve the family’s bodies from beneath the wreckage of their bamboo house.
Evacuations and Disruptions
According to the government, around 47,000 people have left their homes for emergency shelters. The storm’s impact also included the cancellation of over a dozen flights as it lingered over key areas in Luzon.
Ongoing Weather Conditions
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that at least five dams opened their gates to manage water levels. Meanwhile, engineers are assessing the safety of highways blocked by landslides in Bukidnon.
Frequent Weather Events in the Philippines
The Philippines experiences approximately 20 storms and typhoons annually. The increasing intensity of these weather events is attributed to climate change. This is particularly concerning, as the country is currently recovering from a series of earthquakes that have already resulted in significant loss of life and property.
In light of the disaster, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has stressed the importance of enhancing the country’s disaster preparedness and response measures. The Philippines remains highly vulnerable to natural disasters, prompting a timely call for improved strategies to mitigate future risks.
