Tropical Storm Enteng (Yagi), the latest in a relentless string of storms to hit the Philippines this year, has once again highlighted the critical importance of the country’s infrastructure. As Enteng swept through Eastern Visayas, Central Luzon and the Bicol Region, it unleashed flooding, landslides and widespread damage, putting immense pressure on the systems that keep daily life running.
Like those before it, Enteng underscores how vital and vulnerable these systems are when extreme weather strikes.
CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
The name itself suggests that it is essential for society to function. In a nutshell, critical infrastructure includes energy, water, communication networks, transportation, healthcare and emergency services. These systems are indispensable, especially during crises, but they are also particularly susceptible to disruptions brought by storms like Enteng.
As an example, Enteng’s impact in Eastern Visayas was severely felt, with cities like Tacloban suffering from floodwaters rising several feet and cutting off access to basic services. Central Luzon and the Bicol Region experienced similar devastation with overflowing rivers and landslides isolating communities.
The toll was significant: at least 18 lives were lost, more than 1.2 million people were displaced and economic damage – from homes, infrastructure and public services – reached billions of Pesos.
The chaos caused by Enteng, along with previous weather disturbances, clearly illustrates the importance of critical infrastructure. When these systems function properly, society can continue to operate even in difficult times.
The consequences, however, can be catastrophic when they fail, just as they did recently.
Government agencies, private companies, and non-governmental organizations all play important roles in maintaining and protecting these systems. The Department of Energy (DOE), for instance, coordinates with providers like Meralco to manage power outages and expedite repairs, while the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) works to restore water and sanitation services.
On the other hand, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are crucial in clearing flooded roads and restoring public transport, collaborating closely with local governments and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
Private companies like Meralco and Maynilad Water Services are on the front lines in addressing power and water supply disruptions. Telecommunications providers such as Smart-PLDT and Globe Telecom also help in ensuring that communication networks remain operational – a critical need for emergency response.
Non-governmental organizations and civil society groups are equally important in the aftermath of such disasters. The Philippine Red Cross provides food, medical care, and temporary shelter, while organizations like the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) advocate for sustainable recovery and long-term resilience.
Critical infrastructure is, quite literally, incredibly critical.
Typhoon Enteng has exposed the necessity of these systems. The storm and its aftermath—flooding, landslides, and other triggered disasters—demonstrate how quickly society can come to a standstill when these systems are compromised.
As climate change brings more frequent and intense storms, the pressure on these systems will only increase. Strengthening them is essential not only for immediate disaster response but also for ensuring long-term recovery and resilience.
