Catanduanes Bears Brunt as Super Typhoon Uwan Displaces Over 1.4 Million
The fury of Super Typhoon Uwan, known internationally as Fung-wong, was starkly visible in a photograph from Pandan, Catanduanes last Sunday, November 9, 2025. The image depicted widespread devastation in the area, a testament to the cyclone's initial power. While Uwan has since weakened into a typhoon, its impact has been colossal, displacing 443,073 families or 1,416,063 individuals as of Monday noon, November 10, according to an official government tally.
Police Assure Public Safety, Establish Special Desks in Evacuation Centers
Amid the chaos and destruction, a significant silver lining emerged from the Philippine National Police (PNP). In a press briefing held at Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday, PNP Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR) deputy chief Brig. Gen. Vina Guzman delivered reassuring news. "For now yes, we can say that as of this reporting we have not received any reports of any looting or criminal incident [in the affected regions]," Guzman stated.
To proactively protect the most vulnerable, especially women and children, the PNP has established special police desks inside evacuation centers. Guzman emphasized the critical role of these Women and Children's Desks, noting that calamities often attract criminal elements seeking to exploit the situation. These desks are tasked not only with securing evacuees but also with ensuring that no one takes advantage of their vulnerability.
This initiative is part of the directive from acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., who ordered all police units to help secure evacuation centers. PNP records confirm that 9,853 of the 28,008 evacuation centers nationwide are currently providing shelter to those displaced by the typhoon.
Massive Police Mobilization for Rescue and Relief Operations
The PNP's response to the calamity has been extensive. PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño, in the same briefing, revealed that approximately 21,682 police officers have been deployed across the four regions hit hardest by Uwan. Their mission is twofold: to provide security and to assist in critical search and rescue operations.
This massive deployment has already yielded significant results. Police units have conducted 62 search, rescue, and retrieval (SRR) operations, successfully saving 10,112 individuals from life-threatening situations. "This is a time when unity truly matters," Tuaño remarked. "Our police officers on the ground are working hand in hand with local authorities, volunteers, and partner agencies to bring help where it is most needed."
Beyond security and rescue, police personnel are also actively assisting in relief distribution and clearing operations to help communities begin the arduous process of recovery.
Widespread Infrastructural Damage and Commendation for Frontliners
The typhoon's wrath extended far beyond displaced populations. According to the PNP's latest tally, Uwan's passage led to:
- 71 cancelled flights
- 176 stranded ships and small watercraft
- 7,868 stranded passengers
- 2,977 roads and 35 bridges rendered impassable
- 3,258 affected power lines
- Damage to 24 police stations, two headquarters, and two police vehicles
The storm also affected 209 barangays and even impacted 28 PNP personnel. Despite these challenges and the personal risks involved, acting PNP chief Nartatez commended all deployed personnel for their unwavering commitment. "Our police officers continue to take action to ensure the safety and welfare of our fellow citizens. In times of calamity, the PNP never hesitates to respond to the call of duty," he said in a statement.
