
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- magnitude /MAG-ni-tood/
[noun] – the large size or importance of something
The magnitude of the problem surprised the local officials. - aftermath /AF-ter-math/
[noun] – the situation that exists after an important or unpleasant event
People worked together in the aftermath of the disaster. - allocate /AL-uh-keyt/
[verb] – to give something to someone as their share of a total amount, to use in a particular way
The government will allocate money for road repairs. - imperative /im-PER-uh-tiv/
[adjective] – extremely important or urgent
It is imperative to wear a seatbelt when driving. - mitigate /MIT-i-geyt/
[verb] – to make something less harmful, unpleasant, or bad
Planting trees can help mitigate the effects of climate change.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The Philippine government declared a national state of emergency on November 6, 2025, after Typhoon Kalmaegi brought severe flooding and strong winds to central provinces, particularly Cebu and nearby areas. The storm, which entered the country earlier in the week and exited toward the South China Sea, affected nearly two million people, forcing hundreds of thousands to move to temporary shelters. Government agencies described the magnitude of the damage as the most extensive this year, noting disruptions to transportation, power supply, and local industries. Officials emphasized that the declaration aimed to speed up relief operations and provide broader assistance to affected communities across the Visayas region.
In the aftermath of the typhoon, authorities began efforts to allocate additional funds for recovery and infrastructure repair. Meteorologists from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration explained that Kalmaegi released rainfall equal to more than a month’s worth in a single day, overwhelming drainage systems and rivers. Experts highlighted the imperative of improving urban planning and flood control systems to mitigate similar disasters in the future. As preparations continued, forecasters also warned of another developing tropical system that could approach the northern region in the coming week. Despite the challenges, government units and local communities remained focused on rebuilding efforts and strengthening resilience against future natural calamities.
In the aftermath of the typhoon, authorities began efforts to allocate additional funds for recovery and infrastructure repair. Meteorologists from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration explained that Kalmaegi released rainfall equal to more than a month’s worth in a single day, overwhelming drainage systems and rivers. Experts highlighted the imperative of improving urban planning and flood control systems to mitigate similar disasters in the future. As preparations continued, forecasters also warned of another developing tropical system that could approach the northern region in the coming week. Despite the challenges, government units and local communities remained focused on rebuilding efforts and strengthening resilience against future natural calamities.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced a strong typhoon or flood? If so, what did you do to stay safe? If not, what would you do?
- Have you ever helped in a relief or donation drive after a disaster? If so, what kind of help did you give? If not, would you like to?
- Do you agree that declaring a state of emergency helps people faster during disasters?
- How can schools educate students about disaster awareness and safety?
- Why is it important to build stronger infrastructure in areas often hit by storms?
Summarization:
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- declare
- temporary
- emphasize
- highlight
- preparation