Typhoon Verbena Wreaks Havoc on Pangan-an Island
The coastal community of Pangan-an Island in Lapu-Lapu City faced severe destruction as Typhoon Verbena struck the area on November 24, 2025. The powerful storm caused substantial damage to homes and livelihoods, prompting emergency evacuations and relief operations.
Extensive Damage to Infrastructure and Livelihood
According to Barangay Captain Junrey Casiao, who reported the damage during post-assessment operations, four sitios on the island suffered significant impact: Bon-bon, Song-on, Looc Tunga, and Tabay. The assessment revealed that more than 22 homes sustained partial damage, while nine fishing boats were found submerged along the shoreline during high tide.
The situation became critical enough that Captain Casiao ordered mandatory evacuations at 1:40 AM, moving residents to the Daycare Center near the Sports Complex in Sitio Bonbon. A total of eight families, comprising 28 individuals, were evacuated from coastal homes due to dangerous high tides and powerful waves.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
The Lapu-Lapu City Government, through the City Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO), is currently conducting verification operations to determine the final count of damaged properties and affected families. Once verification is complete, humanitarian support will follow, including both food and non-food assistance.
In preparation for the relief efforts, the DRRMO had already supplemented 719 relief boxes for Pangan-an Island the previous week, with the barangay awaiting the scheduled distribution of these essential supplies.
Mayor Cindi King-Chan has called upon all barangays to maintain community-driven efforts alongside response teams to effectively manage post-disaster operations. The mayor specifically requested barangays on Olango Island and other islet communities to document the number of affected fishing boats so the city can provide appropriate assistance.
"The city will collaborate with national agencies to restore the livelihoods of our fishermen. We will not abandon you, we will not turn our backs on you - we will always stand by your side," Mayor Chan assured affected residents.
