RELIEF DISTRIBUTION. Surigao del Sur Governor Johnny Pimentel (center) leads the distribution of aid in Tandag City on Saturday (Feb. 14, 2026). Damage from Tropical Storm Basyang in the province has exceeded PHP1.5 billion, according to a Feb. 16 report. (Screengrab from Gov. Pimentel Facebook)
BUTUAN CITY – Damage from Tropical Storm Basyang in Surigao del Sur has exceeded PHP1.5 billion, with relief and clearing operations ongoing across the province, according to a provincial government report released Monday.
Data showed PHP924.3 million in infrastructure damage and PHP595.7 million in agricultural losses. The storm, which made landfall in Bayabas town on Feb. 5, affected 258 barangays in 19 municipalities.
“The provincial government is currently processing the financial assistance for residents whose houses were totally and partially damaged,” the provincial government report said.
A total of 99,821 families were impacted, with 34,737 families evacuated to 505 centers. Damages to houses reached PHP9.6 million, with 161 totally destroyed and 722 partially damaged.
Over the weekend, Governor Johnny Pimentel led relief distribution in Tandag City and Cortes municipality. He also monitored clearing operations along the Surigao-Davao Coastal Road in Lanuza.
The provincial government has received 20,700 of 30,000 family food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, with 17,224 already distributed. Financial assistance for those with damaged homes is being processed. (PNA)