As Typhoon Kalmaegi (regionally known as Typhoon Tino) swept through the central Philippines, leaving widespread destruction across Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Northern Mindanao regions, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Philippines and Adventist Community Services (ACS) quickly activated their emergency response operations to assist affected communities.

Powerful Typhoon Strikes with Multiple Landfalls

Typhoon Kalmaegi, the 20th tropical cyclone to hit the country in 2025, made four landfalls on November 4, 2025, in Southern Leyte, Cebu, Negros Occidental, and Guimaras.

Packing winds of up to 150 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching 205 kph, Kalmaegi uprooted trees, damaged homes, and caused severe flooding in multiple provinces. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 in several areas, signaling extreme risk to life and property.

At least 355,877 individuals, representing over 106,000 families, have been affected across eight regions, with 175,531 people currently staying in evacuation centers. While preemptive evacuations helped reduce casualties, widespread power outages, disrupted communications, and road blockages continue to hamper relief efforts.

ADRA and Adventist Community Services on the Ground

In immediate response to the disaster, ADRA Philippines activated its Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA) protocol and began coordinating with Adventist Community Services (ACS) volunteers under the Central Philippine Union Conference (CPUC) and Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC). Through the RNA tool deployed via Monday.com, real-time data is being collected from church networks, community responders, and local government units to assess the extent of damage and identify urgent humanitarian needs.

Despite power and communication interruptions, Adventist volunteers continue to provide on-the-ground updates from affected barangays.

“Our network of ACS partners has been instrumental in gathering data and supporting communities who are in dire need of assistance,” said Dr. Hope Aperocho, ADRA Philippines country director.

Churches as Centers of Relief and Hope

Local Adventist missions and conferences, including the East Visayan Conference (EVC) and Central Visayan Conference (CVC), have mobilized their members to assist with relief operations. EVC leaders are preparing to activate the National Emergency Management Plan (NEMP) to support Southern Leyte, where Tino first made landfall. CVC has also committed volunteers and resources to assist affected communities in Cebu, where several barangays experienced flooding, power outages, and destroyed homes.

Many Adventist churches across the affected areas have opened their facilities as temporary shelters and distribution hubs for relief goods. ADRA’s coordination with local governments and community-based groups ensures that assistance reaches the most vulnerable, including children, women, and elderly evacuees.

Faith in Action Amid the Storm

As families rebuild their lives, ADRA continues to call for prayer and support.

“This is a time when our faith must shine through action,” said Karl Mark Morta, ADRA Philippines emergency response coordinator. “The Adventist Church stands ready to be a source of compassion and hope for those affected.”

The devastation brought by Typhoon Tino once again underscores the importance of preparedness, collaboration, and compassion — values deeply rooted in the Adventist mission to serve humanity and reflect the love of Christ in times of crisis.

About ADRA Philippines

ADRA Philippines, the humanitarian arm of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, has been serving Filipino communities since 1984. In partnership with church organizations, government agencies, and local communities, ADRA continues to respond to disasters and uplift vulnerable populations through sustainable development and emergency relief initiatives.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.