Typhoon Kalmaegi Hits Philippines: Death, Devastation, and a State of Emergency
Manila,Philippines/Vietnam
Typhoon Kalmaegi, locally named Tino, slammed into the central Philippines in early November 2025, leaving a trail of destruction, flooding, and loss of life. The storm has become one of the most devastating natural disasters in the country this year, prompting a national state of emergency and raising serious questions about infrastructure resilience, disaster preparedness, and long-term recovery.
What Happened
Landfall & Strength
Kalmaegi made landfall with sustained winds of around 130 km/h (about 81 mph), with gusts reaching up to 180 km/h, according to PAGASA, the Philippine weather agency.
Flooding & Rainfall
Torrential rains triggered massive flash floods, particularly in Cebu, where waterways and rivers overflowed. Some areas recorded 180 mm (about 7 inches) of rain in just 24 hours.
Storm Surge Risk
Coastal and low-lying areas were warned about “life-threatening” storm surges that could exceed 3 meters in height.
Evacuations
More than 387,000 people were evacuated in anticipation of the storm.
Infrastructure Impact
Over 160 flights were canceled, maritime travel was disrupted, and many houses, roads, and power lines were damaged across the central islands.
Human Toll
Death Toll
Official reports now confirm at least 66 fatalities, though other sources report much higher numbers, as many remain missing.
Missing People
Up to 127 people are unaccounted for in central provinces.
Injuries & Displacement
Hundreds have been injured. According to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), about 400,000 people have been displaced, many seeking refuge in makeshift evacuation shelters.
Helicopter Tragedy
A Philippine Air Force helicopter, deployed for relief operations, crashed in Agusan del Sur, killing six military personnel.
Response & Emergency Measures
State of Emergency / National Calamity
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national emergency to accelerate the release of funds, prevent hoarding, and fast-track relief efforts.
Relief Operations
The Asia-Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management (A-PAD) has mobilized emergency assistance. Their teams are supporting evacuation centers, providing meals, medical support, and other urgent aid.
Healthcare
Doctors Without Borders reported that Cebu Provincial Hospital was deeply affected by flooding and mud, necessitating urgent restoration efforts so it can continue to operate.
International Aid
The European Union has released over ₱85 million (~US$1.5 million) to support immediate relief and recovery for affected regions.
Underlying Risks & Systemic Issues
Infrastructure Gaps
Local officials in Cebu have raised concerns about poor flood control infrastructure. Despite billions of pesos allocated for flood mitigation, some river systems and drainage remain inadequate or poorly maintained.
Climate Vulnerability
The Philippines is particularly exposed to typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural hazards. This latest disaster underscores how climate change may be increasing both the frequency and intensity of such storms.
Air Quality Concerns
Even during the storm, indoor air quality warnings were issued for flooding-affected areas, raising health concerns especially for displaced families.
Why It Matters
- Loss of Life & Livelihoods
The human cost is staggering — lives lost, homes destroyed, and communities displaced. Recovery will take significant resources and time. - Governance & Accountability
The disaster has exposed gaps in infrastructure planning, especially in flood management. Questions will likely be raised about long-term investments and corruption. - Climate Resilience
Kalmaegi may become another data point in the argument for stronger climate adaptation strategies in disaster-prone nations. - Regional Impact
The storm’s path doesn’t end in the Philippines: it is expected to continue toward Vietnam and potentially cause further flooding there. - International Solidarity
The rapid input of international aid, including from the EU and humanitarian organizations, highlights the role of global cooperation in disaster response.
What to Watch
Will the government maintain a year-long national calamity status to support recovery?
How will promised funds be monitored and used for real long-term infrastructure improvements?
Will climate risk adaptation be prioritized in future disaster preparedness planning?
Can communities displaced by the storm return safely — and how soon?
What follow-up will international organizations (MSF, A-PAD, EU) have on the ground?
