Initially categorized as a tropical depression after entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility near Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur, on May 24, Aghon’s impact was unexpected as it traversed Luzon over the next three days.

The tropical depression intensified into a tropical storm on the morning of May 26, moving slowly northwestward over Tayabas Bay and bringing with it heavy rains that caused severe flooding in different parts of Quezon, Laguna, and Batangas.

Residents from Barangay Lual, near the Mauban river, called for rescue as floodwaters rose to almost more than 10 feet in some areas.

Fishermen from Mauban, Quezon, narrated that they were caught off guard after big waves destroyed their bancas, something they did not expect from a Signal 1 storm, comparing it to their past experience confronting a Signal 3 storm.

The trail of destruction forced the City of Lucena to declare a state of calamity, while the provincial government still evaluates the possibility of declaring one as they continue to assess the damage in other Quezon towns.

A day later, residents are reeling from the impacts of the storm, clearing toppled electric posts and trees, while others are clearing mud from their residences brought by the flood.