MANILA, Philippines — At least six people have died, hundreds of thousands have been displaced, and damage to infrastructure and agriculture continues to mount as the combined effects of the southwest monsoon (habagat), Tropical Depression Crising, and two low pressure areas (LPAs) batter parts of Luzon and Mindanao, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
As of Tuesday, July 22, the habagat—enhanced by Crising and the nearby LPAs—continues to bring widespread heavy rains, flooding, and strong winds, affecting over 1.26 million individuals or more than 362,000 families across 15 regions. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reports that Metro Manila and the provinces of Pangasinan, Benguet, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Laguna, and Rizal are among the hardest hit.
The weather disturbance has caused six deaths, five injuries, and six individuals remain missing. Three fatalities were reported in Northern Mindanao, and one each in Mimaropa, the Davao Region, and Caraga. Among the confirmed cases is a woman from Barangay Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin, who was killed by a falling tree, and a motorcyclist in Mainit, Surigao del Norte, who died after being struck by another toppled tree. NDRRMC clarified that only two of the six reported deaths have been verified so far.
In addition to human casualties, the weather system has inflicted significant damage to homes and livelihoods. At least 1,501 houses were damaged—348 totally and 1,153 partially—while infrastructure losses are pegged at ₱413 million, and agricultural damage at ₱54 million. The municipality of Umingan in Pangasinan has declared a state of calamity as a result of severe flooding and infrastructure collapse.
PAGASA continues to monitor two LPAs: one located 1,140 kilometers east of Central Luzon and another about 370 kilometers east of Calayan, Cagayan. Though neither has developed into a tropical cyclone, both systems are enhancing the southwest monsoon, sustaining heavy rainfall and thunderstorms throughout the region.
In Metro Manila, key roads such as Roxas Boulevard, UN Avenue, and Kalaw Avenue were submerged in knee-deep floodwaters, resulting in massive traffic disruptions and stranded commuters. In response, several local government units suspended classes and government work, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority temporarily lifted the number coding scheme.
Across the country, over 17,000 individuals have sought shelter in evacuation centers, while many others are staying with relatives or in temporary shelters. Landslides, tornadoes, and flash floods have also been reported in affected provinces, compounding the threat to life and property.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., currently on an official trip abroad, has ordered government agencies to expedite relief and rescue operations and ensure the safety of residents in vulnerable areas.
Today’s Weather Outlook
As of Tuesday afternoon, weather in Metro Manila and much of Luzon remains overcast with scattered thunderstorms. PAGASA forecasts highs of 27°C and lows around 23°C, with heavy downpours expected to persist into the evening. A moderate flood advisory remains in effect for Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela, Cagayan, Quirino, and nearby provinces. Residents living near rivers, slopes, and low-lying areas are urged to remain alert for possible flash floods and landslides.
Safety First
Authorities continue to remind the public to monitor official weather bulletins, prepare emergency supplies, and avoid traveling through flooded areas. The NDRRMC also encourages local disaster risk reduction councils to stay on high alert and implement necessary safety measures.
With more rains forecast in the coming days, the nation braces for continued disruptions as the habagat and related weather systems show no signs of letting up.
