The entire province of Cebu has been placed under a state of calamity following the widespread destruction caused by Typhoon Tino (international name: Kalmaegi), which battered the province on Tuesday, November 4.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro issued Executive Order No. 68, Series of 2025, late Tuesday, declaring the state of calamity to allow the provincial government and local government units (LGUs) to mobilize emergency resources for rescue, relief, and rehabilitation operations.
According to the order, Tino caused severe damage to infrastructure, government facilities, private establishments, and residential areas, resulting in fatalities, injuries, and the displacement of communities across Cebu.
The typhoon also disrupted basic services and posed ongoing threats to public safety, health, and security.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), in coordination with local disaster councils, confirmed the damage and recommended the declaration after assessments revealed widespread destruction and continuous risks to life and property.
Under the executive order, all provincial and local government offices are authorized to use their Quick Response Funds (QRF) and other appropriate funds for rescue, relief, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts, subject to auditing rules and regulations.
A price freeze and anti-profiteering measures were also implemented to prevent overpricing of basic necessities and prime commodities.
The Department of Trade and Industry and the Local Price Coordinating Council were directed to monitor prices and ensure the availability of essential goods during the emergency period.
The order mandates the Cebu PDRRMO to lead and coordinate rescue, relief, medical, and rehabilitation operations, and to mobilize necessary manpower and resources for immediate disaster response.
The state of calamity will remain in effect until lifted by the provincial government upon the recommendation of the PDRRMC