Tropical Cyclone "Uwan" has left widespread damage across the country’s agriculture and energy sectors, affecting 4,631 farmers and disrupting power for 3.4 million electricity connections nationwide.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) reported Tuesday that agricultural losses from the recent weather disturbance have reached P142.29 million, affecting rice, corn, high-value crops, and livestock.
Some 2,482 hectares of farmland were damaged, translating to a production loss of 8,235 metric tons. The hardest-hit areas are in the MIMAROPA and Bicol regions, with further losses anticipated as damage assessments continue.
To support affected communities, the DA is mobilizing P379.31 million worth of farm inputs, P1.24 million in animal feeds, and P771,620 in bangus and tilapia fingerlings.
Relief measures also include 2.57 million bags of rice from the National Food Authority, zero-interest loans of up to P25,000 under the Survival and Recovery program, and indemnification through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp.
Power lines, plants down
Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DOE) reported significant damage to the country’s power infrastructure.
Nine on-grid power plants remain offline, while 63 off-grid plants are still being restored. Transmission lines—including nine 69kV and two 230kV lines—were disrupted, and 51 electric cooperatives continue restoration efforts.
As of Tuesday noon, 454 of 712 municipalities had power, leaving 3.4 million consumer connections still without electricity.
Eight electric cooperatives reported total outages, and 83 electric vehicle charging stations remain offline.
“The top priority is the swift restoration of energy to critical facilities such as hospitals, evacuation centers, telecom and water utilities, government emergency operation centers, and vital oil depots,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said at a media briefing.
“We are working in close collaboration with energy sector stakeholders to pinpoint gaps in both electricity and fuel supply, proactively anticipating needs to ensure a safe and expedited restoration process,” she added.
The DOE is closely monitoring fuel supply chains to maintain stability, especially for emergency services and critical facilities. Following the declaration of a state of national calamity, a nationwide fuel price freeze is in effect from 7 to 21 November.
“The continuous stream of data and real-time insights we are gathering during these natural events is proving invaluable,” Garin added.
“We are committed to translating these findings into concrete action plans and integrating enhanced protocols to strengthen our response capabilities and protect our communities from future climate-related events.”