Polangui, Albay remained free of casualties despite Super Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong) pounding the Bicol Region over the weekend, Mayor Jesciel Richard Salceda said on Monday.
“Zero casualty is both a blessing and a responsibility,” Salceda said, crediting early preparation and strong community cooperation for keeping residents safe. He thanked Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees, barangay officials, and volunteers who worked before, during, and after the storm.
“Thank you to all the Polangueños who obeyed the advisories. We will continue to work as a community,” he added.
The mayor also lauded the support of national agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Health, barangay health workers, the Philippine Coast Guard, and uniformed personnel for their coordinated efforts throughout the typhoon.
According to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, early advisories, preemptive evacuations starting Friday, and real-time monitoring were crucial in preventing loss of life. Albay was under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 during Uwan’s impact.
Authorities continue clearing debris and assessing minor flooding and fallen trees in affected barangays.