Southern Cebu Submerged as Tropical Depression Verbena Strikes
Heavy rainfall from Tropical Depression Verbena triggered severe flooding across southern Cebu on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, transforming urban areas into waterways and forcing residents to confront extensive damage. The sudden deluge overwhelmed infrastructure and natural waterways, creating emergency conditions throughout the region.
Carcar City and Barili Bear the Brunt
In Carcar City, streets became knee-deep rivers as floodwaters surged through communities. The situation grew particularly dire when the Cebu Provincial Hospital experienced flooding, threatening medical services during the emergency. Meanwhile, in Barangay San Rafael, Barili, families faced a different challenge as flash floods from the overflowing Sta. Ana River deposited thick mud throughout homes and properties.
Residents like one Barili local photographed by Juan Carlo de Vela were seen wading through flood remnants, desperately working to recover belongings and clear debris from their inundated homes. The rapid rise of water gave families little time to prepare or safeguard their possessions.
Community Recovery Efforts Begin
In the aftermath of the November 25 disaster, affected communities have launched intensive recovery operations. The flooding from Tropical Depression Verbena has left residents scrambling to salvage what remains of their homes and livelihoods. The cleanup process presents significant challenges, particularly in areas where thick mud coatings require extensive removal efforts.
The photographic documentation by Juan Carlo de Vela captures the stark reality facing southern Cebu residents as they confront the damage. With property losses mounting and cleanup operations ongoing, the full impact of Tropical Depression Verbena's flooding continues to be assessed throughout the affected regions.
