What has Typhoon Tino done in Visayas and what can the Pipol do now?
Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) brought upon a tragedy in Visayas, mainly in Cebu, starting November 5. Currently impacting Vietnam, the typhoon is now out of the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) early Thursday, November 6. And it might just be the deadliest tropical cyclone in the Philippines as of November 2025.
The typhoon left PAR with a frightening death toll of at least 114; 71 from Cebu; 18 from Negros Occidental; 12 from Negros Oriental; six from Agusan del Sur; two from Southern Leyte, and one each for Antique, Bohol, Capiz, Iloilo, and Leyte. Meanwhile, it is reported that 127 people are missing—65 being from Cebu, and 62 from Negros Occidental.
Cebu is among the “best” areas for flood control projects, according to AGHAM Advocates of Science and Technology for the People. The Marcos Jr. administration reported that over PHP 26 billion has been spent on such projects in the past years.
However, the said “flood control projects” evidently failed to protect Filipino lives. It is safe to say that such projects are not keeping the Filipinos safe.
The so-called flood control projects are ineffective in mitigating the country’s declining climate state. It is apparent that risk reduction and disaster management has been the least of the government’s priorities. Now, with their irresponsibility, we have to help our fellow Filipinos in Visayas, as well as call for accountability.
The failure of such projects and the significant loss of life demand not only immediate efforts from people and organizations, but also a collective push for accountability from the government. While the latter is something we must collectively work hard on to achieve, we can help our fellow Pipol now.
How to help our fellow Filipino Pipol, the Cebuanos
Organizations like the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and the National Youth Commission (NYC) are actively working on giving aid to the typhoon victims. The Pipol, at the very least, can share the significant information that organizations and media outlets are posting. While one click may seem like such a small act, it can help reach the right audience with the same ability and willingness to help.
PRC has been visiting different communities in Olango Island, Lapu-Lapu City to assess the situation in each area. In their Facebook post, they said that assessments ensure that relief efforts are guided by accurate data. They want to ensure that help reaches the right people at the right time.
Where the Pipol can send their donations
PRC’s Cebu chapter worked tirelessly to be of assistance in the recovery of Mandaue city. They helped in the clearing operations in Umapad. PRC is not only taking action in helping the different communities in Visayas, but they are also calling for donations.
Whether you are living from afar or not, you can help out by sending your donations to either PRC or NYC. PRC posted bank details that the Pipol can send any amount to. The details are as follows:
On the other hand, NYC posted a drop-off location for in-kind donations. The Pipol, especially those near the area, can drop off their donations at the NYC Cebu Area Office. The details are as follows:
Lastly, Pipol should practice empathy in these trying times, as the typhoon has claimed the lives of many Filipinos. If we are unable to give anything from our pockets, the clicks we make and the empathy we share can still go a long way.
The tragedy that Typhoon Tino brought upon Visayas is a sobering reminder that our fight against the climate crisis must continue. However, we must also hold the government accountable for its shortcomings. While we demand environmental and social justice, we, the Pipol, must stand as one to help Visayas rise from the wreckage the typhoon left behind.
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