Cebu Braces as Tropical Storm Basyang Displaces Thousands
BASYANG – Tropical Storm Basyang left a trail of destruction in Cebu, forcing more than 900 families to evacuate their homes on Friday.
More than 900 families were forced to leave their homes in Cebu after Tropical Storm “Basyang” swept through parts of the province on Friday. Although the weather system has already weakened, its impact left hundreds seeking temporary shelter.
‘Basyang’, which has weakened from a tropical storm, displaced more than 900 families in Cebu on Friday.
According to the Provincial Information Office, the data was consolidated from reports submitted by over 20 local government units. In total, more than 3,062 individuals are now staying in designated evacuation centers, including public schools and gymnasiums. Local officials are continuing to monitor affected communities while ensuring that evacuees receive necessary assistance.
Cebu Gov. Pam Baricuatro assured the public that coordination efforts are ongoing. “I also talked to the (Department of Public Works and Highways) and deployed personnel to the south,” said Cebu Gov. Pam Baricuatro. The deployment aims to address damaged infrastructure and assess areas hit hardest by the storm.
Among the incidents reported was a landslide in Barangay Prenza in Balamban town. Authorities also noted that water levels in several rivers increased significantly due to continuous rainfall. In Lusaran, Cebu City, the river overflowed again, causing concern for nearby residents.
Coastal communities likewise experienced rough sea conditions. In Caubian Island, Lapu-Lapu City, strong waves damaged several motorbancas. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the destruction.
Interruptions in electricity and water supply were also recorded in certain areas of the province. Restoration efforts are currently underway as conditions gradually improve.
As a precaution, tourism activities across South Cebu have been temporarily suspended to protect both locals and visitors.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard reported 1,181 stranded passengers and 544 rolling cargoes. With the weather beginning to clear, authorities expect sea travel to resume. The Coast Guard has committed to assisting stranded travelers once vessel operations normalize.
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