National Calamity Declared as Philippines Battles Twin Typhoon Threats
The Philippine government has declared a one-year state of national calamity following the devastating impact of Typhoon Tino, while simultaneously preparing for the approaching Typhoon Uwan. The Department of Health has activated its National Public Health Emergency Operations Center to coordinate nationwide emergency health responses.
Emergency Operations Center Activated
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Proclamation 1077 on November 8, 2025, to expedite rescue, relief, and recovery operations across affected regions. The newly activated PHEOC will serve as the central command for all health-related emergency responses throughout the country.
"With the help of PHEOC, we will strengthen the response mechanism from national to local levels," the DOH stated, emphasizing their commitment to intensifying efforts to address health emergencies during typhoon season.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa will lead the National PHEOC, with Assistant Secretary Gloria Balboa appointed as incident manager to oversee daily operations and coordination.
Massive Relief Operations Underway
The scale of devastation from Typhoon Tino is staggering. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the typhoon affected 823,977 families, equivalent to 2.9 million individuals. Currently, more than 73,000 families remain in evacuation centers across the country.
The Department of Health has prepared substantial resources for the dual challenge of recovery and preparation. P135.22 million worth of health supplies and equipment stands ready for immediate deployment to address both Tino recovery and Uwan response needs.
In the Bicol region, the DOH has prepositioned P7.9 million worth of emergency supplies, including essential family kits and water tankers to ensure clean water access in affected areas.
Nationwide Emergency Response Mobilized
Emergency medical teams have already been deployed to storm-ravaged provinces, including Cebu. The deployment includes 1,300 trained responders providing comprehensive support services including:
- Medical assistance and emergency care
- Nutrition support for vulnerable populations
- Mental health and psychosocial services
- Water and sanitation assistance
Hospitals throughout Northern Luzon have been placed on high alert as Typhoon Uwan, internationally known as Fung-wong, approaches the Philippine area of responsibility. Medical facilities are preparing for potential casualties and health emergencies that typically follow severe weather events.
The national calamity declaration enables faster fund releases and streamlined procurement processes for essential supplies, while also implementing price controls on basic commodities in affected regions to protect displaced families.
