Southwest Monsoon, or Habagat
MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) is urging Filipinos to gear up for weather-related emergencies and stay alert to official advisories about rain from the Southwest Monsoon, or Habagat.
The OCD issued the reminder on Saturday evening, noting that the Southwest Monsoon, or Habagat, remains active over many areas.
Sources said this pattern can spur renewed floods and landslides in vulnerable communities, so families should prepare emergency kits and know evacuation routes.
Pagasa’s forecast shows the habagat mainly drenching western Luzon, with rain possible in Ilocos Region, Batanes, and the Babuyan Islands.
As of 1 a.m. Saturday, Fabian had exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility and weakened to a low-pressure area, according to officials, leaving no direct impact on the country.
Severe Tropical Storm Podul remains outside PAR and may enter the country’s boundary by Sunday evening or early Monday, depending on its track. The latest bulletin places Podul about 1,875 kilometers east of Extreme Northern Luzon, with maximum sustained winds of 110 kph and gusts to 135 kph.
Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, the OCD officer-in-charge, said the Fabian news is welcome but vigilance remains because Habagat can renew floods and landslides in vulnerable zones.
Authorities stress continuous preparedness measures and the need for timely warnings, especially as weather patterns evolve.
Sources noted that regional and local disaster councils must strengthen information campaigns to reach communities quickly and accurately.
Southwest Monsoon, or Habagat: Preparedness Matters
We are ready to respond to emergencies as conditions evolve, backed by ongoing readiness and strong coordination across agencies.
For more news and updates on habagat weather, visit Filipinokami.com.
