Rosal declares state of calamity after ST Uwan

LEGAZPI CITY --- Albay Governor Noel Rosal has declared the province under a state of calamity following widespread devastation caused by Super Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-Wong).

The declaration, in addition to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s nationwide directive, allows local government units (LGUs) to access their 5% calamity funds to assist families affected by the typhoon. “The 18 LGUs can use the calamity fund, but they cannot spend it all because December is also a critical month for disasters in our province,” Rosal said.

The First District, including Sto. Domingo, Bacacay, Malilipot, Tabaco City, Malinao, and Tiwi, was hardest hit due to its proximity to Catanduanes. In the Second District, Rapu-Rapu Island bore the brunt of the storm, while in the Third District, Guinobatan, Oas, Polangui, and Libon experienced severe flooding.

The Social Action Center (SAC) of the Diocese of Legazpi has called for donations to assist families affected by Uwan. According to SAC, at least 512 houses were totally destroyed and 8,939 partially damaged across the province.

“In the spirit of Christian love and solidarity, we appeal to your benevolent hearts to reach out to those who need it most,” SAC said. Cash donations can be sent via:

GCash: 0995-749-6571 (Eric M)

BPI Account: Social Action Center–SPM, Account No. 0851-0067-37

Walk-in donations: SAC Office, Cathedral Compound, Albay District, Legazpi City.

Donors are encouraged to send transaction screenshots to SAC’s Facebook page or email (sac.dioceseoflegazpi@gmail.com) for proper documentation.

Similarly, the Diocese of Virac, led by Bishop Luisito Audal Occiano, DD, urged support for Catanduanes residents, noting delays in ferry and food supply. “We may not have a Sierra Madre to shield us from every storm, but we can be a Sierra Madre for one another—a shelter, support, a sign of hope,” he said.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Albay Chapter, the Philippine Navy, and Philippine Air Force helicopters continue to deliver water, food packs, and relief goods to affected communities. Roads in Catanduanes remain inaccessible following massive landslides, according to an aerial survey by the Office of Civil Defense-Bicol.