Millions across the Philippines are preparing for Cyclone Fung-wong, locally called Uwan, which is expected to make landfall on Monday. This storm has a diameter of about 1,400 km, covering much of the country, and follows a recent cyclone that caused significant damage.
The Government, together with the World Food Programme (WFP), has activated anticipatory measures to reduce the impact on vulnerable communities. Regis Chapman, WFP Country Director in the Philippines, emphasized the importance of early support:
We know from experience that supporting vulnerable populations before a storm strikes helps to save lives and is much more effective and cost-efficient.
To this end, WFP is providing cash assistance to 31,000 households—over 157,000 people—in Aurora, Cagayan, and Isabela provinces in northern Luzon.
Communities likely to be affected are securing boats, stocking food and medicines, and preparing to shelter in place over the coming days.
In September, the Philippines passed a law enabling the Government to undertake anticipatory actions based on forecasts and risk assessments, with technical support from WFP and other partners.
The Philippines is proactively responding to Cyclone Fung-wong with targeted support and legal measures to minimize harm, underscoring the value of early preparedness.