Tropical Depression Dante Develops East of Aurora
The low-pressure area east of Aurora has intensified, developing into Tropical Depression Dante by Tuesday afternoon, sources said. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) confirmed the formation at around 2:00 p.m., signaling an increased threat from weather disturbances.
President Marcos Disappointed Over Disaster Priorities
Despite being abroad, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed clear disappointment over government personnel’s misplaced priorities during recent flooding. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin relayed that the President was “dismayed” by reports showing officials focusing on setting up materials for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (Sona) while communities battled severe flooding from the southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat.
MMDA Reviews No-Contact Apprehension Violations Amid Floods
As heavy rains continue to flood major roads in Metro Manila, most violations under the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) will be nullified. MMDA Chair Don Artes stated during a virtual briefing that although enforcement of NCAP remains active, all violations will undergo manual verification to ensure fairness amid the adverse weather.
Garbage Identified as Flooding Contributor by MMDA
The MMDA also highlighted improper waste management as a key factor worsening flooding in affected areas. Chair Artes urged the public to exercise greater discipline in disposing of garbage to help reduce flood risks. This reminder came during a press conference addressing the government’s ongoing response to heavy rains affecting Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Ombudsman Suspends GSIS Officials Over Controversial Share Purchase
The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered a six-month preventive suspension of Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo “Wick” Veloso, along with six other executives. This action stems from the purchase of P1.45 billion in preferred shares from a private corporation in November 2023.
The suspension order, dated July 11 and released recently, also includes:
- Executive Vice Presidents Michael Praxedes and Jason Teng
- Vice Presidents Aaron Samuel Chan and Abigail Cruz-Francisco
- Officer II Jaime Leon Warren
- Acting Office IV Alfredo Pablo
Authorities are closely monitoring the case as it unfolds.
For more news and updates on Tropical Depression Dante, visit Filipinokami.com.
