BUTUAN CITY, Feb. 16 -- Damage from Tropical Storm Basyang in Surigao del Sur has exceeded PHP1.5 billion, with relief and clearing operations ongoing across the province, according to a provincial government report released Monday.

Data showed PHP924.3 million in infrastructure damage and PHP595.7 million in agricultural losses. The storm, which made landfall in Bayabas town on Feb. 5, affected 258 barangays in 19 municipalities.

"The provincial government is currently processing the financial assistance for residents whose houses were totally and partially damaged," the provincial government report said.

A total of 99,821 families were impacted, with 34,737 families evacuated to 505 centers. Damages to houses reached PHP9.6 million, ...