Government Strengthens Rainy Season Preparedness Efforts
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called on government agencies to intensify measures for rainy season preparedness. This early action aims to reduce the impact of flooding and other weather-related hazards, local officials said.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the president has prioritized the clearing of drainage systems, especially in Metro Manila, to prevent rapid flooding during heavy rains. “According to the MMDA, they have identified 23 priority canals in the National Capital Region, which are now being cleaned immediately using modern machinery,” Castro shared during a briefing.
Mobilizing Community and Government Resources
In line with these efforts, beneficiaries of the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program are being tapped to assist in canal cleaning. This mutual effort between government and community members aims to maintain clear waterways.
Moreover, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has urged local disaster offices to stay vigilant and ready to respond as first responders during flooding events. The Department of the Interior and Local Government also instructed local government units to enhance their disaster preparedness activities.
Public Cooperation Vital to Flood Prevention
While the government takes decisive actions, officials have called on the public to do their part in keeping communities flood-free. “You can count on the government to take action for you, but we also hope that you do your part for the community. Let’s avoid littering and throwing garbage in areas that are frequently flooded,” Castro said.
She added, “Sometimes, we are the reason why flooding happens more quickly in our areas. Hopefully, we can all help one another.” This shared responsibility is crucial to mitigating the effects of the rainy season.
Weather Advisories and Class Suspensions
On Thursday morning, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued rainfall warnings for Metro Manila, Bataan, Cavite, Rizal, Bulacan, Zambales, and parts of Batangas, including Nasugbu, Lian, Tuy, Calatagan, and Balayan. Light to moderate rains with occasional heavy downpours were also forecast for Laguna, Quezon, and Nueva Ecija over the next several hours.
Due to the heavy rains brought by a low-pressure area and the southwest monsoon (locally called habagat), several local government units suspended classes to ensure public safety.
For more news and updates on rainy season preparedness, visit Filipinokami.com.