ILOILO – Tropical Storm “Ramil” (international name: Fengshen) carved a destructive path across Western Visayas over the weekend, leaving thousands of families displaced, infrastructure damaged, and communities submerged in floodwaters as disaster officials scramble to mount relief and recovery operations.
Initial reports from the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) showed that 6,061 families or 18,470 individuals were affected in the region after “Ramil” made landfall near Juban, Sorsogon, at around 3 p.m. on October 18 with maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h and gusts of up to 90 km/h.
Capiz bore the brunt of the storm’s fury, with 61 barangays hit and 9,665 individuals displaced, followed by Iloilo’s 43 barangays affecting 8,730 individuals, and Aklan’s five barangays reporting 75 individuals impacted.
As of Sunday afternoon, 1,789 families (5,856 individuals) were sheltering in 100 evacuation centers, while another 1,944 families (6,057 individuals) sought refuge in relatives’ homes and temporary sites outside the centers.
Floods, strong winds, and landslides disrupted roads and livelihoods, prompting local authorities to conduct rapid assessments and extend aid.
“Emergency responders are actively working to ensure that food, shelter, and medical aid reach those displaced,” said the RDRRMC report, noting that both local governments and national agencies have begun infrastructure evaluations and early recovery planning.
The council also urged residents to remain vigilant and follow weather advisories from the state weather bureau as the storm season continues.
The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned of severe flooding in low-lying areas and landslides in mountainous terrain, while coastal communities remain on alert for storm surges and rough seas.
“Tropical Storm Ramil continues to pose multiple hazards, particularly flooding and landslides due to heavy rainfall,” PAGASA said, adding that close monitoring of the storm’s movement remains ongoing.
As responders race to deliver assistance, the RDRRMC stressed its commitment to keep affected communities informed and supported.
“The Council remains committed to providing updates and assistance as the situation evolves,” it said.
“Ramil” is the Philippines’ 18th tropical cyclone of 2025, underscoring the increasing intensity and frequency of storms that continue to test the resilience of Western Visayas./PN
