Tropical Storm Trami has devastated the Philippines, leading to at least 115 confirmed dead and missing as of October 26, 2024. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reported that many areas remain isolated due to severe flooding, which has affected over 4.2 million people nationwide. Nearly 500,000 individuals have sought refuge in over 6,400 emergency shelters established to provide safety amid the chaos [cb6ba248].
The storm has brought unprecedented rainfall, overwhelming local flood control systems and causing widespread destruction. Emergency services are actively engaged in rescue operations, working tirelessly to reach those stranded or in need of assistance. In response to the crisis, schools and government offices have been closed to ensure public safety [cb6ba248].
As the storm continues to impact the region, there are concerns that its effects may extend to neighboring Vietnam, prompting authorities to prepare for potential flooding and other related disasters. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments of the damage and needs of affected communities [cb6ba248].
The recent disasters have sparked criticism of President Marcos Jr.'s disaster response capabilities. Two cyclones, including Typhoon Trami, have exposed weaknesses in the government's preparedness. As of October 24, Typhoon Trami had already caused 20 deaths, prompting Marcos Jr. to express helplessness during a live television broadcast. Senator Imee Marcos has called for accountability regarding flood control funds, questioning the effectiveness of the government's claims of completing over 5,500 flood control projects [7d53ba44].
Camarines Norte recorded a staggering 528.5mm of rain on October 22, highlighting the severity of the storms. The Villafuerte family faced backlash for vacationing during the storm, while former Vice President Leni Robredo raised 47 million pesos for relief efforts. In 2023, the government allocated 245 billion pesos for flood control, but Imee Marcos has demanded transparency regarding the 132 billion pesos spent since 2018 [7d53ba44].
In light of these events, November 4 has been declared a day of mourning for the victims of Typhoon Trami. The Philippines, ranked first in the World Risk Index, continues to grapple with the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters. Retired generals have called for action against corruption in flood control funds, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness as the nation faces increasing climate-related challenges [7d53ba44].