Overview: Paolo’s Reach Across Regions
Tropical Cyclone Paolo has left a substantial impact on communities across the Philippines. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that a total of 313,822 people, or 94,744 families, have been affected in several regions, including the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Central Luzon, and Calabarzon. The data reflects ongoing assessments as authorities monitor the cyclone’s aftereffects and coordinate response efforts.
Where the Impacts Are Most Felt
Central Luzon saw the highest number of affected residents, with 246,306 people reporting impacts from Paolo. Other affected areas include the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, CAR, and Calabarzon, illustrating how the storm’s reach varied across the country.
Displacement and Shelter
Of the total affected population, 3,091 individuals (866 families) are staying in evacuation centers. An additional 5,289 people (1,928 families) are sheltering in other locations. These figures highlight the ongoing need for temporary housing, relief supplies, and protective services for displaced residents as weather conditions improve or fluctuate.
Flooding and Infrastructure
Flood conditions persist in 19 areas while floods have subsided in 109 areas, pointing to a mixed picture on the ground. Paolo has also caused damage to 27 houses (26 partial, 1 total) and six infrastructures, underscoring the broader toll on housing and essential facilities.
Transport and Utilities
Roads and bridges remain a concern in certain zones: eight of 111 affected road sections and 23 of 36 affected bridges are still impassable. Power interruptions continue in 16 of 61 affected areas, while water supply has been restored in one area. Two of 17 affected seaports remain non-operational, leaving 176 passengers, 37 rolling cargoes, 32 vessels, and seven motorbancas stranded. These conditions complicate relief logistics and reconstruction efforts.
Education and Work Disruptions
The threat posed by Paolo has led to significant societal disruption: classes in 342 areas have been suspended, and work schedules in 128 areas have been adjusted. Authorities are working with schools and local employers to ensure safety while mitigating the impact on daily life and productivity.
Relief Efforts and Local Government Support
Relief and assistance have been rolling out as authorities coordinate with local government units. To date, aid valued at 1,107,766 Philippine pesos has been provided directly to victims, with 1,973,196 pesos allocated to the concerned local governments. The NDRRMC continues to monitor needs, mobilize resources, and ramp up support as the situation evolves.
What Comes Next
Officials stress the importance of continued monitoring for potential river overflow or secondary hazards and emphasize the need for sustained relief operations in affected communities. Residents in at-risk areas are urged to stay informed via official channels and heed evacuation orders if issued. As recovery begins, focus will shift to restoration of utilities, return-to-work plans, and reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and housing.
