Devastation in Talisay City: The Trail of Typhoon Tino

Earlier this week, I visited Barangay San Isidro and Barangay Mohon in Talisay City. These barangays, which had communities along the river, were two of the most devastated areas in the city following the heavy flooding caused by Typhoon Tino. What I saw was truly heartbreaking.

Barangay Mohon and Sitio Isla Verde (in Barangay San Isidro), nestled along the coast and riverbanks, bore the brunt of the storm’s fury. Homes were totally destroyed and swept away, and families were forced to flee with only what they could carry. Broken furniture, remnants of homes that once housed families, and the quiet grief etched on people’s faces are all that’s left.

Take a look at some of the photos that I took during my visit.

Barangay San Isidro (Sitio Isla Verde)

Sitio Isla Verde in Barangay San Isidro was one of the worst-hit areas in the city. The flood wiped out whole communities and even pulverized two-storey concrete homes. We can only imagine how big the water was at the height of the typhoon. It must’ve been terrifying!

This community used to have so many houses. Now, only a few structures remain standing.

The houses built far from the water were spared. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case for those close to the water.

Even these concrete structures were not strong enough to withstand the power of the water.

The massive flood also destroyed most of the bananas in this area.

Across the bridge, fields of green and occasional crops are no longer in sight.

Residents rely on this small well to wash their belongings after the flood.

Can you imagine how the flood destroyed this entire two-storey house?

Barangay Mohon, Talisay City

In Barangay Mohon, I saw a similar scene. The communities along the river are gone.

Many residents turned to the river for water to clean their homes and belongings.

You can also see damage on a portion of the flood control structure in Barangay Mohon.

If you look at this photo, and considering the debris still hanging from the tree, you can see just how high the water rose.

This segment of the project has garnered national attention, with widespread criticism labeling it as subpar.

Despite the devastation, I witnessed moments of quiet strength as neighbors helped each other and children smiled through the grief. These scenes reminded me of the resilience that defines the Cebuanos.

It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of such destruction in Talisay City. I believe that taking photos of these moments is a way of honoring the lives that were affected. The event has also reminded us of the urgent need for compassion, preparedness, and support.

If you’re able, please consider donating to local relief efforts or volunteering your time for communities not only in Talisay but also in other affected areas like Liloan, Consolacion, and Barangay Bacayan.