Typhoon damage
PACKING center winds of up to 130 kilometers per hour, Typhoon Aghon battered the country recently, killing seven people and destroying agricultural crops valued at P21 million.
The first howler to hit the Philippines this year, Typhoon Aghon triggered floods, landslides, cut electricity supply and displaced thousands of residents in six regions.
Worst hit by the weather disturbance were Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas.
Aware of the effects of climate change, some quarters now want the government to fine-tune its disaster preparedness programs.
Note that the Philippines is one of the favorite “sparring partners” of powerful typhoons and storms in the Asia-Pacific region.
In fact, every year, an average of 20 howlers visit the country, particularly during the so-called rainy season. which usually starts late May.
What is important is for concerned government offices and agencies to aggressively implement climate change adaptation strategies.
With the help of the private sector, the authorities ought to address the high vulnerability of low-ying areas to destructive weather events.
Let’s ensure community preparedness whenever natural hazards, such as typhoons, flooding and landslides, occur throughout the year.
Iba na ang laging handa.
