Typhoon Doksuri (local name Egay) significantly impacted the Philippines, affecting various regions and vulnerable groups, including children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. As of July 31, 2023, a total of 668,974 families or 2,452,738 persons were affected by the disaster. Approximately, around 1 million children, 4,554 PWDs, and around 239,000 elderly are affected. There were 25 reported fatalities, 52 injuries, and 20 missing persons, some of whom belonged to these vulnerable groups. The typhoon also caused damage to 35,855 houses, possibly displacing, or exposing these vulnerable individuals to harsh weather conditions.
The infrastructure damage was extensive, with 399 road sections and 32 bridges affected, hampering access to essential services and assistance for vulnerable groups. Around 306 cities/municipalities experienced power interruptions, adversely impacting communication, safety, and well-being. In addition, five cities/municipalities experienced water supply interruptions, raising the risk of dehydration, infection, and disease for the vulnerable groups.
Communication lines were disrupted in 10 cities/municipalities, isolating vulnerable groups from their families and support networks. The cancellation and non-operation of 85 domestic flights and 145 seaports further stranded or delayed the travel plans of these vulnerable populations.
The suspension of classes and work in several regions disrupted the children’s education and livelihoods, while the declaration of a state of calamity in 106 cities/municipalities triggered stress and trauma.
Typhoon Doksuri evolved from a low-pressure area into a tropical depression in Southeastern Luzon on July 21, 2023. It transformed into a typhoon on July 22 and escalated into a Super Typhoon upon approaching Northern Luzon on July 25. The storm affected 12 regions of the country, leading to displacement and destruction.
Currently, 668,974 families or 2,452,738 individuals in 4,164 barangays across the 13 affected regions are needing assistance.
Approximately 13,828 families or 50,987 persons were served inside 737 evacuation centers while 262,008 persons were served outside evacuation centers.
The total number of displaced populations stands at 35,855 with 1,283 houses damaged and 34,572 partially damaged. Of this, 13,951 are in the CAR and 11,364 in the Ilocos Region. There are 114,565 affected farmers and fisherfolk with 10,478 with no chance of recovery [totally damaged]. Of these, 94,289 are in the Cagayan Valley Region.
Lingap Pangkabataan is mobilizing support for the affected communities, especially for the most vulnerable groups. Coordination and timely assistance are essential to mitigate the impact of this disaster on the most vulnerable populations. We come in prayer and stand in solidarity with those affected by Typhoon Doksuri, working towards a resilient and swift recovery.
Source:
[1] National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. https://monitoring-dashboard.ndrrmc.gov.ph/
[2] ACT Alliance, Philippines – Typhoon Doksuri (Egay)- Strong winds and torrential rains battered the country | ACT Alliance