This natural disaster has left entire regions cut off, with critical rescue operations ongoing, President Ferdinand Marcos announced on Saturday.

Trami departed from the northwestern part of the nation on Friday, but not before inflicting substantial damage. Official reports confirm at least 85 fatalities and 41 individuals unaccounted for, making it one of the deadliest and most destructive storms to hit the Southeast Asian archipelago this year. The death toll is anticipated to climb as rescuers reach previously inaccessible areas.

President Marcos, after assessing damage in a particularly affected region southeast of Manila, highlighted the exceptional amount of rainfall—equivalent to one to two months’ worth within 24 hours—that overwhelmed existing flood controls. "The water was just too much," Marcos explained. "We're not done yet with our rescue work. Many areas remain flooded and inaccessible even to large trucks."

The administration has pledged to initiate a significant flood control project capable of handling such extreme weather conditions, which are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change. The storm's path affected more than five million people, compelling nearly half a million to seek refuge in over 6,300 emergency shelters distributed across several provinces.

In an emergency Cabinet meeting, concerns were raised about the potential for Tropical Storm Trami to reverse course due to high-pressure winds in the South China Sea. If the storm does not alter its trajectory, it is expected to hit Vietnam over the weekend.

To protect lives, schools and government offices on the principal island of Luzon were closed for the third consecutive day on Friday. Inter-island ferry services were also suspended, leaving thousands stranded. By Saturday, weather conditions had improved in many regions, enabling the commencement of cleanup efforts.

Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea, the Philippines faces the brunt of approximately 20 storms and typhoons each year. A poignant reminder of the potential for destruction is Typhoon Haiyan of 2013, which resulted in more than 7,300 deaths and widespread devastation.