Death Toll Rises From Southwest Monsoon Impact
The death toll from the recent cyclones and the southwest monsoon has climbed to 37 across the Philippines, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). This total includes three additional fatalities confirmed in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), where the southwest monsoon’s effects remain severe.
The southwest monsoon impact has been felt nationwide, affecting nearly 7.7 million people. Heavy rains and landslides have caused widespread disruption, especially in urban and mountainous areas. Local leaders noted that infrastructure damage now totals over 10 billion pesos, while agricultural losses approach 2 billion pesos.
Regional Deaths and Missing Persons
Most fatalities occurred in Metro Manila, with nine deaths reported. Calabarzon followed with eight fatalities, and Western Visayas recorded six. The Negros Island Region and Northern Mindanao each reported three deaths. Central Luzon had two, while Mimaropa, the Davao Region, and Caraga each reported one death. Additionally, eight individuals remain missing, and 22 others are injured due to the extreme weather events.
Ongoing Weather Conditions and Damage Assessment
The recent tropical cyclones Crising (internationally known as Wipha), Dante (Francisco), and Emong (Co-may) intensified the southwest monsoon’s impact, leading to persistent heavy rains and flooding. Baguio City officials, for example, inspected a landslide-damaged section of Kennon Road, calling for third-party audits to investigate potential design and construction flaws in recently completed protective structures.
On Thursday, scattered to occasional rains and thunderstorms continue to affect parts of Central and Northern Luzon. This ongoing weather pattern disrupts daily life and hampers recovery efforts. Authorities urge the public to stay alert and prepare for further heavy rainfall.
For more news and updates on the southwest monsoon impact, visit Filipinokami.com.
