Philippine authorities have declared at least 90 people dead with 75 others missing in the central Philippines, many in widespread flooding in a hard-hit province still recovering from a deadly earthquake. Officials indicate that the natural disaster, which drove many out of their homes, trapped people on their roofs, and swept away cars, has caused catastrophic damage across several communities.
Earlier this week, the death toll had climbed to at least 114, with another 127 people still missing following floods and landslides triggered by the storm. The province of Cebu remains the hardest hit, with rivers overflowing and entire neighborhoods submerged under heavy rainfall exceeding 183 millimeters in 24 hours. In the southern province of Agusan del Sur, six military personnel were also killed when their helicopter crashed during a rescue operation.
In response to the devastation, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a national state of emergency to accelerate relief efforts and enable the release of emergency funds. Interior Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Tino is leading national recovery coordination, deploying additional teams and resources to affected regions.
Relief agencies and government forces continue to deliver food, water, and medical supplies to affected areas, as the Philippines braces for another approaching weather system. Authorities are urging continued caution and unity as the nation rebuilds from one of the most destructive storms to strike this year.
