Manila Declares State of Calamity Due to Heavy Rains
MANILA, Philippines — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno has declared a state of calamity in the City of Manila following persistent heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon. This move enables the local government to quickly tap into calamity funds and respond to urgent needs.
In a social media livestream on Tuesday afternoon, Moreno emphasized the importance of this declaration. “We need to declare a state of calamity in the City of Manila,” he said. He also announced that he requested the City Council to hold an emergency session on Wednesday to formalize the declaration. “The day after tomorrow, you can now utilize your calamity fund to augment and address needs of your respective constituency,” Moreno told barangay officials.
Evacuations and Weather Updates
Local leaders reported that as of 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, the city government had opened 22 evacuation centers. A total of 3,035 individuals, representing 876 families, sought shelter due to flooding caused by the heavy rains.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) forecasted more than 200 millimeters of rainfall in Metro Manila until Wednesday afternoon. This alarming weather update prompted the national government to suspend classes and government work in Metro Manila and 36 other provinces on Wednesday.
Government Response and Community Safety
The state of calamity declaration allows Manila’s local government to mobilize resources swiftly to assist affected residents. Barangay officials have been urged to prioritize the safety and welfare of their communities amid ongoing adverse weather conditions.
Residents are advised to stay informed and heed official warnings as the city braces for continued heavy rains and possible flooding.
For more news and updates on Manila’s state of calamity, visit Filipinokami.com.
