Marcos activates flood protocols

664 barangays at risk of floods, landslides from July 3 to 6

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS and JEL SANTOS

President Marcos has directed key government agencies to activate disaster preparedness measures as the country braces for rains that may cause flooding and landslides, Malacañang said Thursday, July 3.

In a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President’s instructions include clearing clogged waterways and strengthening the response capabilities of local disaster offices.

The Palace Press Officer said the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has already identified 23 priority esteros in the National Capital Region (NCR) and is using modern equipment to expedite cleanup efforts.

She added that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) were also mobilized to assist, with TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers) beneficiaries enlisted to help clean the waterways.

TUPAD is a short-term employment program of DOLE that provides emergency work for displaced, underemployed, and seasonal workers.

Beneficiaries are typically hired for community projects such as cleanup, repair, or rehabilitation activities.

President Marcos' order is timely in the wake of the issuance of Geohazarad Advisory No. 1 by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB).