In the aftermath of Typhoon Pepito, also known internationally as Man-yi, over 1,000 families, totaling 3,336 individuals, continue to seek refuge in evacuation centers across Pangasinan. As of Monday afternoon, these families had evacuated their homes over the weekend to escape the storm’s wrath. Assistant Director Pia Flores from the Pangasinan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported that while some evacuees from Dasol, Infanta, and Laoac have returned home, many remain displaced.
The decision to evacuate was influenced by warnings from both national and local government officials, who anticipated potential storm surges from the typhoon, which had been downgraded to a severe tropical storm by late morning. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, though the storm left a trail of destruction, including the total destruction of homes in San Fabian and Laoac, and partial damage to others.
Landslides blocked sections of Villaverde Trail in San Nicolas, and clearing operations are underway, though the trail remains impassable. Flash floods affected several villages in Bugallon and San Nicolas, while flooding due to high tides and creek overflows was reported in Dagupan City and San Jacinto.
River levels are a concern, with Sinocalan River in Sta. Barbara reaching critical levels, and Marusay and Bued Rivers in Calasiao and San Fabian respectively, exceeding normal levels. Conversely, Balincaguing and Agno Rivers in Mabini and Bugallon remain below normal levels. The rising water levels are attributed to upstream water and rainfall from Pepito on Sunday night.
San Roque Dam ceased its water discharge operations by late morning, with its water level at 279.20 meters above sea level by noon. Governor Ramon Guico III expressed gratitude towards residents who followed the evacuation orders and the frontline workers aiding them. He emphasized the priority of ensuring the evacuees’ comfort and sustenance, acknowledging the typhoon’s impact but also its weakening before reaching the province.