Southwest Monsoon Relief Efforts Reach Millions
More than 4.5 million people, or over 1.3 million families, have been affected by the recent onslaught of Tropical Storms Crising, Dante, and Emong, combined with the southwest monsoon, locally known as the “habagat,” the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reported on Friday. These weather disturbances have battered numerous parts of the Philippines, causing widespread damage and displacement.
The southwest monsoon relief efforts have mobilized quickly as 4,530 barangays nationwide reported impacts. Around 174,000 individuals, roughly 50,000 families, have been displaced and are currently seeking refuge in nearly 1,000 evacuation centers across the country, according to OCD Deputy Spokesperson Diego Mariano.
Casualties and Damage from the Southwest Monsoon
Tragically, at least 25 people have lost their lives, eight were injured, and eight remain missing due to these weather events. Among the fatalities, three have been confirmed directly related to weather conditions: one person electrocuted in Bulacan, and two others killed by falling trees in Camiguin and Surigao del Norte. The other 22 deaths are still under investigation but are believed to be caused by drowning, falling trees, and capsized boats, sources said.
Deputy Spokesperson Mariano emphasized that casualty figures may change as more reports come in and undergo validation.
State of Calamity and Regional Impact
In response to the widespread destruction, 84 areas across the Ilocos region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, and the National Capital Region have declared a state of calamity. Central Luzon remains the hardest hit, with over 2.2 million individuals affected. Meanwhile, specific areas like La Union and parts of Pangasinan bore the brunt of Tropical Storm Emong’s impact.
Relief Distribution and Support
Southwest monsoon relief efforts have already provided approximately ₱283 million in aid to affected families. Additionally, local government units and agencies received about ₱8.4 million to support ongoing response and recovery activities. The Department of Social Welfare and Development, together with local governments, continues to distribute essential supplies such as food packs, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, water filtration units, and special child- and women-friendly spaces kits.
In San Mateo, Rizal, thousands gathered at the Sta. Ana covered court where relief operations are underway to assist 3,899 families or 14,390 individuals affected by the habagat. Local leaders noted the critical nature of these efforts as communities strive to recover.
For more news and updates on southwest monsoon relief efforts, visit Filipinokami.com.
