Manila: The Catholic Church in the Philippines has swiftly activated its nationwide relief network to respond to the impact of Super Typhoon Fung-wong, locally known as Uwan. Caritas Philippines, the Church’s social action arm, announced that it is coordinating closely with diocesan social action centers to prepare for possible response operations as the storm moves toward Northern and Central Luzon, with its extensive circulation also expected to affect Southern Luzon and the Visayas.
“Typhoon Tino has exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility, and our focus now turns to Typhoon Uwan, which is anticipated to intensify into a Super Typhoon,” Caritas Philippines said. The agency urged communities to remain alert, ensuring that communication devices are fully charged, relief supplies are prepositioned, and lifelines such as water, electricity, and transport routes are maintained. “Let us prioritize the safety of our families and communities,” the statement added. “May faith, compassion, and preparedness guide us as we pray for protection along Uwan’s path.”
In the Bicol region, where heavy rain and strong winds are expected first, dioceses have opened churches and mobilized relief teams. The Diocese of Legazpi in Albay has designated multiple parishes as evacuation centers, including St. John the Baptist Parish in Camalig, St. Jude Thaddeus Shrine in Legazpi, and Our Lady of Salvation Parish and Diocesan Shrine in Joroan, among others. The diocese called on communities to unite in prayer for the safety of residents across Bicol and neighboring provinces.
Similarly, the Diocese of Daet in Camarines Norte has activated disaster protocols. Bishop Herman G. Abcede issued guidance to clergy and parish leaders, urging both spiritual vigilance and practical preparedness. Parishes have been instructed to lead the Oratio Imperata for Protection Against Calamities during Masses, encourage families to pray at home, secure parish facilities, and check on vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly and persons with disabilities. Temporary shelters have been designated in parish halls, classrooms, or church buildings where needed. Bishop Abcede emphasized turning the crisis into an opportunity for solidarity, faith, and service.
Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Cáceres in Naga City reminded the faithful to prepare prudently and remain calm, emphasizing co-responsibility and mutual care during the storm.
Typhoon Fung-wong reached super typhoon status on Sunday, covering a vast portion of the Philippines and threatening catastrophic impacts. In Catanduanes, residents reported rising waves and intense rainfall, with some comparing the crashing surf against seawalls to the ground shaking. Provincial rescue teams described how communities were securing roofs with ropes and anchors to withstand the fierce winds. In Sorsogon, residents sought refuge in churches as shorelines were lashed by strong waves and gusts. Meteorologists warned of rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters in some areas, with a significant risk of river overflows.
The country is still grappling with the aftermath of Typhoon Kalmaegi (Tino), which struck central provinces days earlier, claiming at least 204 lives and leaving 109 missing. Rescue operations have been temporarily suspended to ensure the safety of emergency personnel as Typhoon Uwan approaches. Experts noted that certain areas remain inaccessible, hampering relief and search efforts. Scientists continue to highlight the role of human-driven climate change in intensifying typhoons, as warming oceans and a hotter atmosphere contribute to stronger winds and heavier rainfall.