The provincial government of Cebu has officially declared a state of calamity following the severe flooding and damage caused by Typhoon Tino, officials confirmed.
Heavy rains and strong winds triggered by the storm led to widespread flooding, impassable roads and thousands of displaced residents across the province. The declaration allows the local government to tap emergency funds more quickly and implement price controls for basic goods as relief efforts ramp up.
Residents in low-lying and coastal barangays are being urged to stay alert, await further instructions from disaster-risk officials and avoid returning to damaged areas until they are declared safe. The state of calamity gives Cebu the flexibility to expedite response, rehabilitation and recovery operations.