Gatchalian leads relief ops in Catanduanes after ST Uwan

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY --- Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian flew to the island province of Catanduanes, one of the hardest-hit areas in Bicol, following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-Wong) over the weekend.

Gatchalian led a coordination meeting with Governor Patrick Alain Azanza, Representatives Jose “Bong” Joson Teves Jr. and Leo Rodriguez, and other local chief executives to assess the typhoon’s impact, identify the needs of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and determine additional support for the province’s early recovery, in line with directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

He also personally oversaw the distribution of Family Food Packs (FFPs) to 512 families in San Miguel, Catanduanes on November 11, 2025. In addition to the FFPs, 100 hygiene kits and 50 sleeping kits were provided to displaced families.

“This visit reflects President Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure the swift delivery of assistance to families affected by ST Uwan,” Gatchalian said.

The DSWD Bicol, led by Regional Director Norman S. Laurio, reported that at least ₱44,184,125.65 worth of relief goods, including food packs, sleeping kits, and hygiene kits, have been deployed across Bicol. Currently, the MV Theresa Magbanua, in coordination with the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard in Catanduanes, is unloading 10,000 additional FFPs at Virac Port.

Catanduanes bore the brunt of ST Uwan, with strong winds, massive storm surges, landslides, and flooding destroying houses along coastal towns. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Bicol reported 1 death, 5 injuries, and 375,043 families (1,325,020 persons) affected in 2,573 barangays. Infrastructure damages were estimated at ₱111,839,000, including 960 fully destroyed houses and 7,756 partially damaged homes.

In Albay, several towns remain without power due to toppled electric posts, while flooding and lahar flows affected Guinobatan, Oas, Polangui, and Libon. Flooding also struck Sorsogon, Camarines Sur, and Camarines Norte. Authorities warned that the “ber months” are particularly critical in Bicol, as stronger typhoons typically hit the region during this period.