Typhoon Yagi leaves at least 15 dead and 21 missing in the Philippines after its passage.

At least 15 people have died and 21 remain missing following the passage of Typhoon Yagi, locally known as Enteng, in the Philippines. The storm, which rapidly intensified from its initial category as a tropical storm, has left a trail of devastation across the island of Luzon, where the capital, Manila, is located. Local authorities have raised alarms about the extent of the damage and the potential long-term effects of this calamity. The incessant rains and sustained winds of up to 75 kilometers per hour, along with gusts reaching 90 kilometers per hour, caused severe flooding and landslides in various areas. Reports indicate that most of the fatalities are due to landslides and drownings, as well as electrocutions, highlighting the ferocity of the climate events affecting the region. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with the agency responsible for disaster management to assess the situation. During this meeting, it was revealed that among the missing is a group of 15 sailors whose ship sank, prompting an intense search in the surrounding waters. The coastal community, which is often our first line of defense against such phenomena, now faces a serious challenge. The situation is alarming, not only because of the loss of life but also due to the impact on the daily lives of more than 1.7 million people. Of these, approximately 88,000 have been displaced from their homes. Complications are increasing with damage to critical infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals, and the economic impact has been significant, with estimates indicating losses worth 350 million pesos, or about 6.2 million dollars. The storm has caused the cancellation of dozens of domestic flights and the suspension of classes in more than 450 educational institutions, affecting thousands of students. The closure of schools in a country where education is seen as a fundamental pillar for development has raised concerns among parents and educators, who hope that the situation will normalize soon. As search and rescue efforts intensify, President Marcos has urged local authorities to focus on recovery operations. Rescue teams are working hard to clear roads and remove debris, while preparing for what could be a long and arduous recovery. Meanwhile, a new challenge looms on the horizon. Chinese authorities have issued new alerts regarding the arrival of Typhoon Yagi, expected to make landfall on Hainan Island and in Guangdong Province. This typhoon, the eleventh of the season and considered the first of autumn, could affect millions of people in its path. The situation in the Philippines could be indicative of what lies ahead for other regions in Asia. The Philippines, an archipelago that recurrently faces about 20 typhoons a year, is under pressure once again. The rainy season, which extends from June to November, highlights the country's vulnerability to extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change. In July, more than 30 people lost their lives due to Typhoon Gaemi, a grim reminder of the fragility of life in the region. The international community has expressed its support for the Philippines, and many countries have offered humanitarian aid. Solidarity and collaboration are crucial in times like these, where borders blur in the face of urgent need for assistance. The hope is that, despite the devastation, the affected families and communities will find the strength and resources to rebuild their lives. In conclusion, the passage of Typhoon Yagi has had a profound impact on the Philippines, reminding us of the importance of disaster preparedness, community resilience, and the need to address climate change with seriousness and urgency. Recovery will be a long process, but the determination of the Filipino people is unbreakable, and, over time, they may rise from the ashes of this storm.