Key Points
- At least 53 cities and municipalities in the Philippines have declared a state of calamity following the widespread destruction caused by Typhoon Tino, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
- The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reported on Wednesday that at least 66 people have died, while 26 remain missing as authorities continue search and rescue operations.
- Australia’s Smart Traveller advisory has urged Australians travelling in Southeast Asia to remain vigilant amid severe weather, with Typhoon Tino (known internationally as Kalmaegi) expected to affect parts of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and nearby countries.
Filipino nurse Francis Econg, based in Newcastle, New South Wales, said their home in Talisay City, Cebu, suffered flooding, but he is grateful that his family is safe. “It’s a huge relief that no one in the family was harmed,” he said.
In an interview, Econg shared his hopes and priorities for his family:
“At the moment, hopefully all the flooding slowly disappears so we can go home right away, straight to our house. We will also consider how they’re doing emotionally and work on repairing and rebuilding whatever damages they’ve been through. Just being there for them is a big thing as well. The thought of expenses travelling to Australia and the Philippines—but it’s just money, and we can always earn it. At the end of the day, it’s always family that should stick together.”
📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino
🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.
📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.
