October 24, 2024
Typhoon Kristine brought torrential rains and severe flooding to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), impacting thousands of lives and causing widespread damage across three provinces. The typhoon’s effects were felt particularly hard in the provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Sur, and Maguindanao del Norte, with reports of heavy agricultural and infrastructural losses.
According to BARMM Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (READi), the typhoon affected 113,807 families across 224 barangays in 30 municipalities, with 1,655 families currently taking refuge in 11 evacuation centers spread across the region. One injury has been reported in Masiu, Lanao del Sur.
Agricultural Damage and Infrastructure Losses
The typhoon inflicted substantial damage on BARMM’s agricultural sector. A total of 135 farmers were affected, and 145 hectares of crops were destroyed, amounting to an estimated PHP 1.982 million in crop losses. These losses are expected to have a significant impact on local food production and the livelihoods of farmers in the area.
Additionally, 11 houses sustained damage, with 2 houses partially damaged and 9 completely destroyed. Infrastructure was also compromised, with several key roads and bridges affected, including:
- National Highway, Barangay Magaslong, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur
- Datu Pendaliday Street, Kanguan, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur
- Sitio Madtalbayog CP Chinook 61B Road, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur
Educational Disruptions
The flooding also led to class suspensions in two provinces, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte, as authorities ensured student safety amidst the disaster.
Ongoing Relief and Recovery Efforts
BARMM authorities and local government units (LGUs) are actively monitoring the situation and coordinating relief efforts for affected families. Evacuation centers remain open, providing shelter and essential supplies to displaced families as officials continue to assess damage and facilitate recovery.
Typhoon Kristine’s devastating impact highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the BARMM region to natural disasters. Local authorities are working diligently to manage immediate relief efforts while planning for long-term recovery to help communities rebuild and restore their livelihoods.
