Senator Pia Cayetano visited Catanduanes to assess the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Uwan, one of the strongest storms to hit the province in recent years. She was accompanied by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon.
Cayetano inspected heavily damaged portions of Imelda Boulevard in Virac, where storm surges tore through the coastal road, leaving debris scattered across nearby communities. Residents recounted how violent winds and massive waves forced families to seek refuge in evacuation centers.
At the Eastern Bicol Medical Center, Cayetano met with patients, volunteers, and health workers who faced intermittent power supply, damaged equipment, and an influx of storm-related injuries and waterborne illnesses.
The provincial government reported that over 25,000 houses were damaged and more than 230,000 residents across 11 municipalities were affected by flooding, landslides, and prolonged power outages. Agriculture and fisheries, vital to the local economy, were also severely impacted.
“Relief operations must continue, but we need to move swiftly toward reconstruction — restoring health facilities, ensuring clean water, reviving agriculture and fisheries, and helping families rebuild safer homes,” Cayetano said.
Dizon noted that the Department of Public Works and Highways is clearing roads and drafting repair plans for critical infrastructure. Local officials expressed hope that national assistance, coordinated with humanitarian groups, will help the province recover quickly.