Batangas declared under state of calamity after storm kills 54

Batangas province has been declared under a state of calamity due to the destruction and deaths brought by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.

The Bugaan Bridge in Laurel town collapsed, and logs from the mountains were seen scattered on roads, making some routes in Talisay and Laurel difficult to pass through.

As of the latest report, Severe Tropical Storm Kristine has resulted in 54 deaths, 21 missing persons, and 18 injured individuals across Batangas.

Residents in Laurel dealt with mud and timber that damaged their houses, while a wake was held in Talisay for 18 people who died in a landslide, including a family of five.

Damage to the agriculture and fisheries sectors in Batangas is estimated to be P118 million, and the provincial government is seeking assistance for clearing equipment and human resources.