Quezon City, Manila declare state of calamity due to Habagat

The local governments of Quezon City and Manila on Tuesday declared a state of calamity amid the heavy downpour brought by the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat.

The declaration in Quezon City was made during a special session by the city council led by Vice Mayor Gian Sotto.

“Yes, our city council declared a State of Calamity kaninang 2 p.m.,” Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte confirmed in a message to GMA Integrated News’ James Agustin.

Quezon City’s emergency hotlines will remain open. For emergency or help, city residents may dial 122.

Likewise, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso made a similar declaration to hasten the emergency response in the city.

“To those who are watching in their respective barangays, the day after tomorrow, you can now utilize your calamity fund to augment and address needs of your respective constituency,” said Domagoso in a live address.

Further, Domagoso said that six city-run hospitals are ready to take in patients.

“Naka-high alert po ang ating anim na ospital,” he said.

Work in government offices and classes at all levels in Metro Manila are still suspended on Wednesday due to the continuous heavy rainfall brought by the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat, the Malacanang said.

Meanwhile, the low pressure area located east of Aurora has developed into Tropical Depression Dante on Tuesday afternoon, the state weather bureau PAGASA said. — BAP, GMA Integrated News