The Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council stated on the 21st that due to the combined impact of the southwest monsoon and tropical cyclones, heavy rainfall has led to frequent disasters such as flooding in many parts of the Philippines. At present, a total of 88 cities (towns) nationwide have declared a 'state of calamity.'
According to the latest bulletin from the Council, the most severely affected provinces include Pampanga Province and Bulacan Province. These provinces are located in the largest plains region of Luzon Island and are highly prone to flooding due to continuous heavy rain.
Official statistics show that more than half of the villages in Pampanga Province have been submerged by floodwaters, nearly one million people have been affected, and agricultural losses amount to about 1.4 billion pesos (approximately 91.52 million ringgit).
'State of calamity' is an official emergency declaration that Philippine governments at all levels issue when they are affected by serious natural disasters, epidemics, or major crises.