While much of the national spotlight has been focused on Cebu’s floods, the tragedy that unfolded in Negros tells a story just as heartbreaking—one that deserves equal attention. Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) left behind scenes of destruction and grief across Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental, where families are still grappling with loss and the struggle to rebuild.
In Canlaon City, where the storm hit hardest, at least a dozen people have died and 18 others remain missing. Clearing operations continue across 244 affected areas, with the Negros Electric Power Corporation repairing 65 toppled poles to restore power by the end of the week. Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas said the city was left without electricity, internet, and running water, complicating already dire rescue and relief efforts.
“We are trying our best to address these pressing problems, but they are very difficult at present,” Cardenas explained.
The devastation in Canlaon is visible in every street. Walls have been ripped open, houses buried in mud, and entire families lost to floods and landslides. Governor Chaco Sagarbarria shared haunting images of the city—trucks overturned, roads collapsed, and residents sifting through what remains of their homes. The Espora family, spanning three generations, was among those who perished in Barangay Panubigan.
RELATED: [Typhoon Tino Devastates Visayas, Leaves Widespread Damage]
A Widespread Crisis Across Negros
Beyond Canlaon, neighboring towns across Negros Occidental have also been left in ruin. The province has been placed under a state of calamity due to widespread destruction of critical infrastructure, power stations, and water systems. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the typhoon damaged not just roads and bridges, but also farmlands, fishponds, and livestock—crippling the livelihoods of thousands.
“The typhoon affected 134,718 residents across all 31 local government units,” Lacson noted, emphasizing that the calamity declaration enables the release of emergency funds and enforces a price freeze on basic goods.
In Bacolod City, strong winds and heavy rain battered communities, forcing the evacuation of more than 1,800 residents from 14 barangays. Coastal areas in southern Negros were also hit by storm surges, while roads remain blocked by fallen trees and debris.
Beyond Cebu: Negros Needs the Nation’s Eyes
The stories of Negros have been overshadowed by headlines centered on Cebu’s floods but the suffering here is just as real. As rescue teams continue clearing operations and families search for the missing, Negros’ plea is simple: do not look away.
Behind every ruined house and washed-out road is a community striving to recover; deserving of the same compassion, coverage, and aid as any other. Typhoon Tino did not only devastate Cebu. It devastated Negros, too.
