State of Calamity Declared in NCR Amid Typhoon Carina’s Torrential Rains

PASIG CITY— The National Capital Region (NCR) has been declared a state of calamity following extensive flooding and heavy rainfall exacerbated by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon. This critical decision was made on Wednesday by the Metro Manila Council (MMC), which includes the 17 mayors of the NCR, in response to the worsening weather conditions and their impact on the area.

According to Philippines News Agency, meeting led by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acting chair Don Artes, the council voted to declare the state of calamity to mobilize resources and aid for affected communities. Twelve of the mayors, representing cities from Caloocan to San Juan, supported the motion, while five were unable to attend due to dealing with the disaster’s effects in their respective locales.

This declaration enables local government units (LGUs) to access their emergency funds fully, crucial for launching effective relief operations and supporting residents amidst the ongoing floods. San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, speaking on DZBB radio, highlighted that the declaration permits LGUs to utilize 100% of their quick response funds, a significant increase from the usual 70%.

The impact of Typhoon Carina along with the ‘habagat’ or monsoon rains, has led to severe flooding across Metro Manila, affecting daily life and causing substantial disruptions. As reported by the MMDA late Wednesday afternoon, water levels ranged from gutter-deep to chest-high in several cities, including Mandaluyong, Manila, Marikina, and others, necessitating immediate and ongoing response efforts from various agencies.