Philippines declares 1-year National Disaster state amidst typhoon aftermath

Manila (The Uttam Hindu) : Typhoon Kalmaegi wreaked massive devastation in the Philippines, affecting millions of people. Meanwhile, Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos declared a national disaster for one year to expedite rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts following the devastation caused by Kalmaegi.

Marcos signed Proclamation No. 1077 on November 5, which was made public on Saturday, according to Xinhua news agency. The declaration allows the Philippine national and local governments to appropriate funds for emergency and rehabilitation programs and to provide basic services to displaced residents. The presidential proclamation stated that the state of calamity will remain in effect for one year unless the President revokes it earlier. It also announced immediate measures such as imposing price ceilings on essential commodities and staple goods, providing interest-free loans to hard-hit areas, and preventing overpricing, profiteering, and hoarding of essential goods, medicines, and fuel.

In addition, government agencies were ordered to carry out post-disaster rehabilitation measures to restore normalcy and improve living standards in the affected areas. Law enforcement units, supported by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, were also directed to maintain peace and order in the affected areas.

Kalmaegi, the 20th tropical cyclone to hit the Philippines this year, wreaked havoc, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said on Sunday. The storm pounded large parts of the central and southern Philippines, killing 224 people due to flooding and landslides.

According to the OCD, more than 100 people are missing and 526 injured after Kalmaegi struck. While relief efforts continue, the Philippines is also preparing for the approaching super typhoon Fung-Wong. According to the state weather bureau, the storm is rapidly intensifying and is expected to make landfall Sunday night or Monday morning.