The Philippines, particularly the Visayas region, continually learns harsh but vital lessons in life and safety from its frequent encounters with typhoons. This week, the threat posed by Tropical Depression Wilma served as another significant test of the nation's collective resilience and capacity to respond.
Wilma's Unpredictable Path and Impact
When the northern part of Cebu, including Cebu City, was placed under Signal Number 1 on Friday, December 5, the weather initially seemed deceptive. Rain started in the morning but stopped by afternoon and evening. However, by Saturday afternoon, clouds began to darken, and by 4:00 PM, the rain returned—a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability.
The anticipated severe impact of the storm, however, had not yet been strongly felt in the area. This was due to monitoring by PAGASA, which showed that Wilma was moving very slowly.
Official Forecast and Reassuring Outlook
In its latest weather bulletin on the morning of Saturday, December 6, 2025, PAGASA reported the center of Wilma was over the waters of Eastern Samar. It was forecast to move westward, expected to make landfall over Eastern Samar or Northern Samar by Saturday night.
The weather system was projected to traverse the Visayas until Sunday before exiting toward the Sulu Sea and passing close to northern Palawan by Monday. PAGASA weather specialist Janina Marte assured the Visayas would experience clearer skies by Sunday, with warmer and more stable weather by Monday, offering a sigh of relief to residents.
Proactive Local Government Action in Cebu
Despite the improving forecast, the crucial lesson of preparedness remains paramount. The most positive news in this event was the swift and preemptive action taken by the local government of Cebu City.
To avoid a repeat of the severe flooding experienced during Typhoon Tino on November 4, authorities proactively evacuated families from high-risk areas. At least 48 families, comprising 211 individuals, were transferred to various evacuation centers in the city.
According to Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS) head Portia Basamayor, this decision was a precaution for families living in unsafe zones, especially those threatened by potential flooding and landslides. The proactive approach was demonstrated by housing evacuees in several locations:
- Regino Elementary School in Brgy. Pahina Central (39 families)
- Tisa National High School
- Busay Day Care Center
- Baugo Gym in Budlaan
This coordinated effort underscores a shift towards a more preventive disaster management strategy, prioritizing citizen safety before a crisis fully unfolds.
