The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Masbate has officially declared the entire province under a state of calamity following the severe impact of Typhoon Opong, which left at least three people dead and widespread damage across communities.

In a statement on social media, Governor Richard Kho said the declaration would enable the immediate release of emergency funds and resources to fast-track relief and recovery operations for affected families.

Based on reports from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and the Municipal and City DRRMCs, Typhoon Opong has affected 16,302 families, or 57,113 individuals, with the number of victims still expected to rise.

The resolution, unanimously approved during a special session of the Provincial Board, underscored the extensive damage left in the typhoon’s wake — from destroyed homes and infrastructure to disrupted livelihoods and essential services.

Declaring the province under a state of calamity allows local authorities to expedite relief, rehabilitation, and recovery operations. It also authorizes the release and utilization of calamity funds, the enforcement of price freezes on basic commodities, and the provision of interest-free loans to affected families.

On Friday, the Office of Civil Defense Region 5 reported that four people in the Bicol Region lost their lives to Typhoon Opong. Three of the fatalities were recorded in Masbate, while another was reported in Camarines Norte.