NEGROS ISLANDS, Philippines—Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on Tuesday confirmed the rising human and economic toll of Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi), as he reported 44 deaths, 53 missing, and more than 130,000 residents affected across the province. The figures came from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), which noted widespread flooding, landslides, and heavy damage to homes and infrastructure.

During a press conference, Lacson announced that the Provincial Board had placed Negros Occidental under a state of calamity, enabling faster release of emergency funds, price controls on basic goods, and accelerated procurement for relief operations. The governor also urged businesses to cooperate, saying they should “have a heart” as communities struggle to recover.

The storm severely hit 31 LGUs and 375 barangays, damaging over 48,000 houses and affecting key lifelines such as power, water systems, and road networks. Floodwaters in areas like La Carlota and Moises Padilla trapped families on rooftops as rescue teams struggled to navigate blocked roads and debris.

Relief efforts are ongoing. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has distributed more than ₱6.7 million worth of food packs and supplies, while the Office of Civil Defense has begun clearing and early rehabilitation in severely hit areas.

Nationwide, Typhoon Tino has prompted a state of national calamity after the death toll surged to over 200, according to the NDRRMC and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Governor Lacson said the province faces a long recovery ahead but vowed continuous coordination with national agencies and local governments to restore services, support survivors, and continue search efforts for the missing.

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