MANILA – The reported death toll from last month’s southwest monsoon and a series of tropical cyclones has climbed to 40, with combined agriculture and infrastructure damage now exceeding PHP18 billion, according to official government tally as of Tuesday.
In its latest update, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said only three deaths are so far confirmed — one each in Ilocos Region, Northern Mindanao, and the Caraga Region. The remaining 37 fatalities are still undergoing validation as of the time of the report.
In the same update, the NDRRMC said agriculture damage was estimated at PHP2.98 billion, affecting 91,933 farmers and fisherfolk, while infrastructure damage was estimated at PHP15.46 billion, for a total of PHP18.44 billion.
The NDRRMC report also said families affected by inclement weather are now at 2,376,036, equivalent to 8,635,250 persons.
Of the affected families, 23,866 are being given assistance in 797 evacuation centers while another 27,861 are being helped elsewhere. (PNA)