Philippines Declares Year-Long State of National Calamity Following Typhoon Tino's Devastation

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. enacts measure to expedite relief, recovery, and aid, including price controls and financial assistance for affected citizens.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines has officially declared a one-year state of national calamity across the country. This significant decision, made upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), is a direct response to the widespread destruction caused by Typhoon Tino (international name: Kalmaegi) and serves as a proactive measure against anticipated future weather events, including Super Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong).

The proclamation, designated as Proclamation No. 155, will remain in effect for one year from November 7, 2025, unless rescinded earlier by the President. This declaration is designed to streamline and accelerate crucial rescue, recovery, relief, and rehabilitation efforts involving both government agencies and the private sector. It also facilitates the acceptance and distribution of international humanitarian assistance.

A key component of this state of national calamity is the immediate implementation of a price freeze on essential and prime commodities throughout the Philippines. This measure aims to prevent price gouging and ensure that basic necessities remain accessible to the public. Furthermore, the declaration authorizes the provision of no-interest calamity loans to those affected, offering financial relief during this challenging period. It also empowers authorities to combat overpricing, profiteering, and hoarding of essential goods, medicines, and petroleum products.

National and local government units are granted expanded authority to utilize available funds, including calamity and quick response funds, to support immediate disaster response and long-term recovery initiatives. President Marcos has directed all government agencies to prioritize urgent disaster response operations focused on saving lives, mitigating health impacts, ensuring public safety, and meeting the basic needs of affected populations. Post-disaster recovery measures are also to be implemented to restore normalcy and improve the living conditions and livelihoods of communities impacted by the disaster.

Government agencies are tasked with providing or supplementing essential services and facilities for affected local government units and are encouraged to facilitate private sector and international aid as needed. The NDRRMC reported that Typhoon Tino resulted in a tragic loss of at least 224 lives, with Cebu province being the hardest hit. The number of missing persons stands at approximately 109, with over 526 individuals injured. More than 3.5 million Filipinos across eight regions have been affected by the typhoon, and the estimated cost of damage to infrastructure and agriculture has reached P219 million.

The severe weather has also led to widespread disruptions in essential services. Many utility lines damaged by Typhoon Tino remain unrepaired, leaving a significant number of cities and municipalities without electricity. Similarly, water supply disruptions have not yet been fully restored, and communication lines in numerous areas are still down, making it difficult to reach affected communities.