Philippines faces new typhoon Pepito as recovery from Ofel continues

Typhoon Ofel, now a severe tropical storm, left the Philippines early Friday, heading towards Taiwan. It was the fifth storm to hit the country in three weeks, causing significant damage and loss of life in northern Luzon. Rescue efforts continue in Cagayan province, where flash floods affected evacuated villages. At least 159 people have died in recent disasters, and the UN has requested nearly $33 million in aid for the hardest-hit areas. Another typhoon, Pepito, is expected to reach the Philippines by Sunday, potentially impacting the capital, Manila. Recent storms have damaged over 207,000 homes and displaced 700,000 people, worsening food supply issues.