Southwest Monsoon Floods Trigger State of Calamity
Heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon have forced several local government units (LGUs) to declare a state of calamity. This development follows Severe Tropical Storm Crising (internationally known as Wipha), which, combined with two low-pressure areas and Tropical Depression Dante, intensified rainfall across the country.
The state of calamity declaration allows affected LGUs to access emergency funds and respond more effectively to the ongoing disaster. Authorities reported that the southwest monsoon floods caused significant damage, including a massive boulder that crushed a parked car and an unoccupied house along Kennon Road in Baguio City. Sadly, a pet dog perished, but no human injuries were reported.
LGUs Declare State of Calamity Across Regions
Metro Manila saw multiple declarations on July 22, with the cities of Manila, Malabon, and Quezon City officially recognizing the calamity status. In Central Luzon, Calumpit in Bulacan and the entire province of Cavite also declared a state of calamity on the same day. Rizal’s Cainta followed suit on July 23, while Cebu City in Central Visayas declared calamity earlier on July 18.
According to local leaders, these declarations are critical in mobilizing resources quickly. They cited Republic Act 10121, the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act, which empowers LGUs to declare a state of calamity. This legal framework enables local governments to tap into their calamity funds and implement urgent measures to protect residents.
Impact and Ongoing Monitoring
The southwest monsoon floods have disrupted daily life and caused damage to infrastructure and homes. Residents have been urged to stay vigilant as weather disturbances remain active in the region. Authorities are continuously monitoring the situation and providing updates to ensure public safety.
This report is part of an ongoing coverage. Readers are encouraged to refresh the page for the latest updates.
For more news and updates on southwest monsoon floods, visit Filipinokami.com.
