Albay town records zero casualties amid Uwan’s fury

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- Despite Super Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-wong) battering the Bicol Region over the weekend with torrential rains and fierce winds, the town of Polangui in Albay emerged with zero casualties — which the mayor credited to early preparation and strong community cooperation.

Mayor Jesciel Richard Salceda on Monday said despite heavy rainfall, flooding, and scattered debris in several barangays (villages), Polangueños remained safe.

“Zero casualty is both a blessing and a responsibility,” he added. He thanked the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees, barangay officials, and volunteers who worked before the arrival, during, and after the super typhoon.

“Thank you to all the Polangueños who obeyed the advisories. We will continue to work as a community,” Salceda said.

The mayor also lauded the assistance of national agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Health, barangay health workers, the Philippine Coast Guard, and uniformed personnel, for their coordinated efforts throughout the typhoon’s onslaught.

According to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, early issuance of advisories, preemptive evacuations as early as Friday, and continuous real-time monitoring were crucial in preventing loss of life.

Albay was under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal Number 4 during the onslaught of Uwan.

Meanwhile, clearing and assessment operations continue in barangays affected by fallen trees, scattered debris, and minor flooding. (PNA)

CLEARING OPS. This road in Polangui, Albay is cleared of mud and debris after super typhoon pummeled the province with heavy rainfall and strong winds over the weekend. Polangui recorded zero casualties when Super Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong) hit the Bicol Region with heavy rainfall and fierce winds over the weekend. (Photo courtesy of Mayor Salceda Facebook page)