Tropical Storm Enteng claims ten lives and causes severe flooding

When Tropical Storm #EntengPH exited the Philippine Area of ​​Responsibility (PAR) on September 3, 2024, it left a trail of devastation in its wake. Widespread flooding and landslides occurred in several regions, particularly in Bicol, where 102 areas were inundated by the floods.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that the storm claimed 10 lives – seven in CALABARZON, one in Western Visayas and two in Central Visayas. It also injured 10 people, all in Central Visayas. The storm, which intensified into a tropical storm on September 1, brought heavy rains and strong winds that particularly affected CALABARZON, Central Visayas and Bicol.

As of 8 a.m. on September 3, the NDRRMC confirmed that #EntengPH combined with the southwest monsoon had affected a total of 37,867 families or about 147,024 persons. Of these, 8,866 families sought shelter in 218 evacuation centers while 411 families received assistance outside these centers.

The storm caused significant flooding in 157 areas, with the Bicol region bearing the brunt with 102 floods. Although most of the floods have subsided, three areas in Bicol are still affected by receding waters. The storm also triggered four landslides – three in CALABARZON and one in Central Visayas – and caused the collapse of three buildings, one in CALABARZON and two in Central Visayas.

In Bicol alone, the estimated damage to infrastructure is P200,000. The storm also affected travel, leading to the cancellation of 19 domestic flights, including seven from Region 5. In addition, 954 passengers are stranded, the majority of them in Bicol and Western Visayas.

Government reaction

Following the disaster, the government mobilized 913 search, rescue and recovery personnel in the affected regions. To assist those affected by the storm, a total of 12,481 food packages for families and essential non-food items such as hygiene and kitchen kits were distributed in the Bicol region and Eastern Visayas.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units have released over P10 million to the affected population. Even though the storm has passed, relief efforts will continue, with a focus on assisting homeless families and cleaning up the damage left behind by #EntengPH.