Eight Dead as Habagat and Tropical Cyclones Luis, Maymay Cause Floods and Landslides Across Philippines

The death toll from the combined effects of the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) and tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay has risen to eight as of 6 p.m. on Sunday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported. Fatalities were recorded in several provinces, including Rizal, Batangas, Benguet, and La Union.

According to the NDRRMC, two people died in Rizal due to a rockslide, while two others in Batangas succumbed to drowning and electrocution. Benguet also reported two deaths caused by a landslide, and La Union recorded two fatalities linked to a landslide, electrocution, and drowning. Additionally, one person remains missing in Batangas, and seven individuals were injured in Benguet due to a landslide and a vehicular accident.

Flooding has been widespread, affecting Regions I, III, MIMAROPA, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and CALABARZON. In Marikina City, the Marikina River water level reached the second alarm shortly before 11 a.m., prompting residents near the riverbanks to evacuate. One resident expressed concern about the rising water levels, especially with children in the household, leading to a decision to leave their home preemptively.

More than 400 individuals sought refuge at the Concepcion Integrated School evacuation center in Marikina. Marikina 1st District Representative Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro explained that the Tumana Pumping Station failed to operate, which hindered the proper discharge of floodwaters into the Pasig River. He immediately alerted the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the project contractor to resolve the issue. By 4:00 p.m., the Marikina River water level was at 17.5 meters, still below the Second Alarm threshold that calls for preemptive evacuation.

Landslides were also reported in Regions I, CAR, and CALABARZON. A notable incident occurred in La Trinidad, Benguet, where a section of Beckel Road was completely washed out due to soil erosion caused by heavy rains. Fortunately, no motorists were passing through the area at the time, and no injuries were reported. La Trinidad Mayor Roderick Awingan expressed sadness over the damage but relief that no one was harmed.

The DPWH noted that the affected concrete road was undergoing renovation as part of a P63-million project that began on June 4. Traffic had been limited to one lane, but work was suspended on June 28 after structural issues were discovered. Benguet District Engineer Teofilo Ramirez Jr. said the structure was deemed unstable, necessitating excavation down to solid ground to ensure proper support. An independent third-party investigation confirmed that the project's foundation was structurally unsound.

As of the latest NDRRMC data, at least 124,000 families nationwide have been affected by the habagat weather system. Across various active evacuation centers, approximately 2,500 families have sought shelter. The severe weather has damaged at least 170 houses, with 13 completely destroyed.

The NDRRMC continues to monitor the situation closely and coordinate with local government units and agencies to provide assistance and ensure public safety amid ongoing adverse weather conditions.