Millions across the Philippines are preparing for Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong, locally called Uwan, expected to make landfall on Monday. The cyclone spans approximately 1,400 km, covering nearly the entire country.
In response, the Government and the World Food Programme (WFP) have initiated anticipatory actions to mitigate impacts. Regis Chapman, WFP Country Director in the Philippines, emphasized the importance of early support for vulnerable groups:
“We know from experience that supporting vulnerable populations before a storm strikes helps to save lives and is much more effective and cost-efficient.”
WFP, together with the Government, is providing cash assistance to 31,000 households, reaching over 157,000 people in northern Luzon provinces including Aurora, Cagayan, and Isabela.
Communities preparing for the typhoon are securing boats, stockpiling food and medicines, and making plans to shelter in place.
In September, the Philippines passed legislation that allows the Government to implement anticipatory actions based on forecasts and risk assessments, with technical support from partners like WFP.
Summary: Coordinated anticipatory efforts by the Philippine Government and WFP aim to protect vulnerable populations ahead of Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong's landfall to minimize harm and save lives.