The aftermath of Typhoon Tino in Cebu, Philippines on November 4, 2025.

 Cebu City has officially been placed under a state of calamity following the devastation wrought by Typhoon Tino (international name: Kalmaegi), which triggered catastrophic flooding and landslides across the Visayas. The Cebu City Council approved the declaration in a special session on Wednesday (November 5), after Councilor Dave Tumulak filed the motion based on the recommendation of the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CCDRRMC). Tumulak said the declaration will allow the City to use its ₱33 million humanitarian fund and access the ₱120 million Quick Response Fund to aid relief and rehabilitation operations. “The flooding was unlike anything we’ve seen,” Tumulak said. “We had to take immediate action to protect our people and rebuild.” Typhoon Tino, which made landfall in Southern Leyte before sweeping across the Visayas, has left at least 90 people dead nationwide — including 76 in Cebu province. Liloan town was the worst hit, with 35 bodies recovered from flood zones, according to Cebu spokesman Rhon Ramos. Governor Pamela Baricuatro called the disaster “unprecedented,” saying, “We were expecting the winds to be the dangerous part, but it’s the floodwaters that devastated our communities.” Residents in Cebu City, Mandaue, Talisay, and Liloan climbed to rooftops as flash floods rose to second-floor levels overnight. “People marooned on rooftops were asking to be rescued, but it was impossible,” said Gwendolyn Pang of the Philippine Red Cross. Cebu City remains under red alert as rescue and clearing efforts continue. Authorities have vowed to strengthen flood control systems to prevent future tragedies. CAM/Expat Media
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