The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila to immediately implement critical emergency measures following the overflow of La Mesa Dam, which reached 80.17 meters as of 8:00 AM, July 22, 2025, according to DOST-PAGASA.

This surpasses its normal high water level of 80.15 meters. Based on DOST-PAGASA’s dam monitoring update, La Mesa Dam has recorded an increase of 0.48 meters over the past 24 hours, and continues to rise.

The overspill threatens low-lying areas along the Tullahan River, affecting Quezon City, Valenzuela, Malabon, Caloocan, and Navotas. An estimated 12,946 individuals or 2,772 families in 24 barangays are at risk.

“We are urging our LGUs to act fast and prioritize the safety of their constituents. Evacuation, real-time communication, and on-the-ground coordination are crucial right now. Ang buhay ng tao ang pinakamahalaga,” said DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Affected LGUs have coordinated with dam operators and activated their respective dam safety protocols and communication plans. At-risk communities have been warned, and both preemptive and forced evacuations have been carried out. Evacuated families are receiving Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) services in designated centers.

As of the latest consolidated report, a total of 11,667 families or 41,878 individuals have evacuated and are now inside evacuation centers in Caloocan City, Malabon City, Navotas City, Valenzuela City, and Quezon City.

DILG DIRECTIVES TO ALL NCR LGUs

1. Intensify Monitoring and Early Warning Systems
* Coordinate directly with DOST-PAGASA and dam operators
* Monitor dam levels and rivers, especially along the Tullahan River system
* Issue real-time alerts to flood-prone barangays

2. Ensure Evacuation and Relief Operations Readiness
* Prepare and maintain evacuation centers
* Preposition essential goods
* Mobilize barangays for rapid evacuation and assistance
* Ensure CCCM protocols are in place for displaced families

3. Conduct Clean-Up and Declogging Operations
* Inventory and deploy garbage trucks with assigned personnel
* Clear esteros, drainage systems, and flood-prone waterways
* Lead community clean-up drives with barangay support
* Conduct Road Clearing for unhampered movement of goods and essential services.

The DILG is working closely with DOST-PAGASA, MMDA, and DSWD to ensure aligned action across government levels, provide support to LGUs, and deliver timely advisories to the public.

Residents in affected areas are strongly urged to stay alert, cooperate with local authorities, and evacuate when ordered.

For live dam status updates, visit:�pagasa.dost.gov.ph.

Original Article At: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-TO-NCR-LGUs-ACT-FAST-AS-LA-MESA-DAM-OVERFLOWS-THOUSANDS-AT-RISK/NC-2025-1113