The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today said local government units (LGUs) nationwide, in coordination with other agencies and stakeholders, is leading proactive disaster monitoring and response operations as the combined effects of the Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Cyclones Mirasol, Nando, and Opong continue to bring widespread rains and flooding to many provinces.

This coordinated effort reflects the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen local preparedness, ensure timely response, and reinforce close coordination between national and local governments to protect communities from the impacts of natural hazards.

Based on the latest NDRRMC report as of 6:00 AM on September 30, swift pre-emptive evacuations were carried out in Regions I, II, CAR, III, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V, VI, NIR, and Caraga, enabling the early and safe relocation of 115,900 families or 414,000 individuals ahead of the storms. This decisive action reflects strengthened coordination between LGUs, national agencies, and communities in safeguarding lives.

LGUs and their local disaster councils, working closely with the DILG, have activated emergency operations centers, monitored weather developments, issued early warnings, and deployed quick response teams to manage the situation on the ground.

According to the Department, these actions demonstrate the vital role of LGUs in frontline disaster response and the effectiveness of a whole-of-government approach when coordination is strong and early actions are taken.

Interruptions to power, water, communication, and transportation systems are being addressed through ongoing clearing and restoration operations led by LGUs in coordination with national agencies.

The Department emphasized that it continues to closely monitor the situation through its regional and field offices, provide guidance to local governments, and coordinate with relevant national agencies to ensure that response operations are timely, well-managed, and focused on protecting communities.

A total of 53 cities and municipalities have declared a state of calamity to accelerate local response and mobilize resources. Assistance from national and local governments has reached ₱204.71 million, alongside 147,300 relief items distributed to affected families and responders.

The DILG reiterated its call for LGUs and communities to work hand in hand in sustaining preparedness and vigilance, especially as rains continue in several areas.

“Kapag listo ang lahat, mas ligtas ang bayan,” the Department stressed.

Disaster preparedness and strong local leadership remain at the core of building safe and resilient communities under the Bagong Pilipinas vision.

Original Article At:https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-LGUs-LEAD-DISASTER-MONITORING-AND-RESPONSE-IN-LINE-WITH-PBBMS-DIRECTIVE-FOR-STRONGER-LOCAL-PREPAREDNESS/NC-2025-1216