Missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are safe and accounted for following Typhoon Opong (international name: Bualoi), which made multiple landfalls across the central Philippines in recent days. The powerful storm affected more than 1.2 million people nationwide and caused severe flooding, infrastructure damage, and widespread power outages.
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The Philippine government has confirmed 14 deaths linked to the typhoon, which brought sustained winds of up to 130 kilometers per hour (81 miles per hour) as it moved from Eastern Samar to Oriental Mindoro. More than 2,400 barangays across 11 regions were impacted. Over 16,000 families were displaced and received shelter assistance, either in government evacuation centers or through community efforts.
Church leaders in the Philippines confirm that all full-time missionaries are safe. A few were temporarily relocated as a precaution and have since returned to their assigned areas.
Approximately 1,200 individuals, including Latter-day Saints and family and friends from other faiths, sought refuge in 29 Church meetinghouses. Most have since returned to their homes. Some families remain temporarily sheltered in Church buildings after their homes, many constructed from lightweight materials, were heavily damaged. Local Church leaders and volunteers are working to assess needs and provide assistance.
Eleven meetinghouses reported damage due to flooding and strong winds. Area teams are evaluating the extent of the damage and coordinating repairs in partnership with local community organizations.
While Typhoon Opong has exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility, the southwest monsoon continues to bring rain to parts of the country. Meteorological agencies report that no new tropical cyclones are expected in the next few weeks, though a low-pressure area may develop in early October.
Latter-day Saints who require support are encouraged to contact their local bishop or branch president.
For many years, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has provided humanitarian assistance around the world during times of natural disasters, civil unrest, and other crises. This support includes immediate relief such as food, water, clothing, and medical supplies as well as long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.