Super Typhoon Uwan surge damages La Union coastlines

A storm surge from Super Typhoon Uwan swept across La Union, flooding coastal communities and damaging homes and businesses. In San Juan, beachfront establishments were hit before dawn on Tuesday. Owners said repairs would be costly and noted the surge was stronger than previous storms like Typhoon Emong.

The flooding prompted emergency evacuations, but some residents stayed behind to protect their property. La Union’s coastline has now faced multiple disasters this year, leaving families and businesses struggling to recover.

Greenpeace calls for accountability as Filipinos rebuild after Uwan’s devastation. [photo credit: Jilson Tiu | Greenpeace]

Heavy flooding hits Barangay Poro

Barangay Poro in San Fernando experienced severe flooding late Monday night that continued past midnight. Most residents evacuated, seeking shelter as water rushed inland. Others chose to stay and safeguard possessions despite the rising tide.

The surge followed the collapse of a nearby road and flood control structure. During the peak of Uwan, a BFAR vessel washed ashore, slamming into homes and worsening the destruction. Local authorities are assessing damages and coordinating relief for affected families.

Coastal La Union communities brace for recovery after Uwan’s impact. [Jilson Tiu | Greenpeace]

Greenpeace calls for climate action

Greenpeace Philippines urged global leaders and the Philippine delegation at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, to hold fossil fuel companies accountable. “Every storm wipes out decades of hard work in a single night,” said Virginia Benosa-Llorin, Climate Campaigner at Greenpeace Philippines.

She added that repeated rebuilding is unfair to Filipinos, who bear the brunt of climate crises. The group emphasized that COP30 negotiations must ensure companies responsible for greenhouse gas emissions provide compensation to affected communities.

Filipinos deserve to recover with dignity and live without fear, Benosa-Llorin stressed. The organization also called for long-term measures to protect coastal communities from future storms.

Damage and recovery efforts
Homes and businesses in San Juan and San Fernando remain damaged, with many families displaced. Local officials are distributing relief and coordinating repairs. The focus is on restoring electricity, water, and transport routes while supporting vulnerable residents.

Emergency teams continue to monitor flood-prone areas as waters recede. Authorities warn that further rainfall could worsen conditions, urging residents to stay alert and follow evacuation directives.