MANILA — With torrential rains from the southwest monsoon (habagat) inundating large parts of the country, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered an all-out response from the national government to mitigate the impact of widespread flooding and ensure the delivery of essential services.
In a recorded message released late Monday night, Marcos said he had activated all key departments to provide immediate relief and support to affected communities, even as he continues an official visit to Washington, DC.
“Nandito kami lagi upang magbigay ng lahat ng serbisyo na kailangan sa harap ng hamon ng climate change,” the President said, affirming the government’s commitment to disaster response despite the growing challenges of climate-related emergencies.
The Office of Civil Defense, Department of Transportation, Department of Health, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Energy, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government are now coordinating efforts to manage relief operations, restore infrastructure, and maintain critical utilities such as power, water, and transport services.
Marcos also emphasized the deployment of food and medical aid to affected areas.
“Siguraduhin natin mas lalo pang mapalakas ang kakayahan ng pamahalaan na tumugon sa ganitong klaseng sitwasyon,” he added, calling for stronger institutional capacities to face worsening weather extremes.
The President urged the public to stay alert, monitor weather bulletins, and follow the directives of local government units for their safety.
Marcos is currently in Washington, DC, from July 20 to 22, upon the invitation of U.S. President Donald Trump, to bolster cooperation between the Philippines and the United States on defense, trade, and climate resilience./PN
