The damage to agriculture and infrastructure in La Union due to Typhoon Emong has exceeded PHP 1 billion, according to the latest report from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO). As of Thursday, infrastructure damage was estimated at PHP 1.1 billion, while agricultural losses reached PHP 145.6 million. The typhoon also inflicted PHP 4.7 million in damages to livestock and poultry.
Emong, which struck the region last week, affected 71,026 families, or 215,097 individuals, across 414 barangays in various municipalities, including Bacnotan, Balaoan, and San Fernando City. Although no casualties have been reported, the typhoon damaged 15,851 houses and destroyed 1,860 others.
The PDRRMO noted that electricity has been fully restored in Caba, Aringay, Agoo, Tubao, Pugo, Santo Tomas, and Rosario, while restoration efforts continue in other affected areas.
Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega assured residents of prompt support and assistance, stating, “Rest assured that we have sufficient relief assistance and we are closely coordinating with the local chief executives of every town to assess the situation and swiftly act on the needs of the affected constituents.”
In response to the severe impact of the typhoon, the provincial government declared a state of calamity on July 26 through Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) Resolution 1410-2025. As of Wednesday, approximately 9,000 family food packs have been provided by the provincial government to support local government units (LGUs) in their relief operations.
Governor Ortega, along with personnel from the Office of Civil Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, conducted an aerial inspection to assess the extent of the damage caused by Emong. He directed the Provincial Engineering Office to expedite assistance to LGUs for clearing operations involving debris, fallen trees, and damaged electric posts.