13 dead, 12 missing in Negros Oriental due to Tino

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo) reported that 13 people were confirmed dead and 12 remain missing following the onslaught of Typhoon Tino in Canlaon City and Vallehermoso town.

Police Lt. Stephen Polinar, Norppo spokesperson, said that 12 of the fatalities and all missing individuals were reported in Canlaon City due to flash floods, while one fatality was from Vallehermoso.

Polinar said several houses were wiped out by flash floods triggered by lahar and floodwater from Kanlaon Volcano during the heavy rainfall.

He added that search, rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing.

The typhoon caused severe devastation in Guihulngan City, where it made landfall on Tuesday, placing the city under Signal No. 3 and 4, and also heavily affected Vallehermoso and Canlaon City.

Polinar said there were also injuries reported, but none were serious, and all policemen involved in the disaster response were accounted for with no casualties.

Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria personally visited Canlaon City on Wednesday to check on the situation, especially with the continued threat from the volcano and the impact of the recent typhoon.

Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas and Sagarbarria ensured that immediate assistance — including food packs and essential supplies — reached affected families and communities.

The provincial government, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and various national government agencies, worked hand in hand to deliver relief operations and assess further needs on the ground.

Sagarbarria reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to support Canlaon City and other affected areas, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration among local and national agencies in responding to natural disasters.

He also expressed gratitude to all sectors extending help and solidarity to the people of Canlaon.