Metro Manila, Philippines – The National Capital Region remained submerged on Wednesday as heavy rains from the Southwest Monsoon, intensified by Super Typhoon Carina, continued to batter the area for the third consecutive day.
Widespread flooding caused by overflowing rivers, including the Marikina and San Juan rivers, and the La Mesa Dam,prompted authorities to declare a state of calamity for Metro Manila. Thousands were forced to evacuate their homes as floodwaters reached dangerous levels. A record-breaking high of over 30,000 evacuees was sheltered in Marikina City,according to Mayor Marcelino Teodoro.
In northern Quezon City, the La Mesa Dam breached its normal high water level on Wednesday evening, reaching 80.16 meters, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).Local governments throughout the capital region implemented evacuation plans to protect residents in low-lying areas,particularly along the Tullahan River.
Addressing the increasing number of localities declaring a state of calamity, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman assured the public of sufficient funds to address the disaster. The government has approximately P11.12 billion remaining in its calamity fund for the entire year. Despite a brief suspension of government office operations, essential services like healthcare, disaster response, and critical operations must continue, according to the Office of the Executive Secretary.
As Metro Manila recovers from the deluge, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and local government units are working together to provide aid and support to affected communities. While Super Typhoon Carina did not make landfall in the Philippines, its devastating effects battered the entire capital, Region IV-A (Calabarzon),Region III (Central Luzon), and the northern part of Luzon, causing over 200 million pesos in estimated damages.