Nueva Vizcaya is reeling after Typhoon Fung-wong, known locally as Uwan, unleashed its fury, leaving a trail of devastation across the province. Initial assessments reveal a staggering P307.5 million in damage to agriculture and vital infrastructure, a figure that paints a grim picture of the storm’s impact.
The agricultural sector bore the brunt of the typhoon’s power, suffering an estimated P250 million in losses. Infrastructure crumbled under the relentless assault, with P53.7 million in damages reported, and livestock losses reaching P3.8 million. These numbers represent livelihoods shattered and a long road to recovery.
The human cost is even more heartbreaking. Over 5,500 homes were impacted, with over 5,100 partially damaged and 434 completely destroyed, leaving families displaced and vulnerable. These are not just statistics; they are lives upended.
Tragically, the storm claimed four lives, each a devastating loss. Five-year-old twins from Kayapa, a 10-year-old boy from Kasibu, and a 30-year-old man from Quezon were all victims of landslides triggered by the torrential rains. Their stories are a stark reminder of nature’s unforgiving power.
The full extent of the damage remains unknown, as assessment teams struggle to reach isolated areas blocked by landslides and collapsed bridges. Current reports only account for damage to properties owned by the provincial government, meaning the true cost is likely far higher.
Damage to roads, schools, and other essential facilities managed by local and national authorities has yet to be tallied. The coming days will reveal the complete scope of the disaster, and the immense challenge of rebuilding a province shattered by Uwan’s wrath.
