Flooding has affected 805 families, or 3,725 people, in Jaen, Nueva Ecija, with residents in five barangays bearing the impact despite water levels starting to recede.

Authorities continue to monitor the Pampanga River and other waterways that could cause flooding in the town.

Jaen Mayor Sylvester Austria said the risk remains during the rainy season, while poor drainage could also cause floodwaters to return.

“Dahil sa tag-ulan, so nandoon pa rin yung risk o yung nagbabahagi na ito ay bumalik ulit ng tubig at ‘yung iba naman ay dahil siyempre sa kakulangan talaga ng drainage system,” Austria said.

The local government has distributed food and medicine to residents living near Mangitik Creek in Barangay Malabon Kaingin.

Floodwater reached knee level along roads and entered some homes in the area.

Authorities continue to urge residents to stay alert as bad weather persists. They also advised residents to evacuate if water levels rise in their communities.

“Sa ganitong panahon, ang aming pong paalala ay laging pag-iingat. Lagi pong tumutok doon sa update po namin,” Jaen DRRM Officer Marsan Mateo said.