Manila: Amid a series of heavier rains causing deep flooding and landslides in many areas of the country, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Wednesday urged households and local government units to remain alert and take proactive measures. In a news release, the DENR emphasized that preparedness can significantly lessen the impact of extreme weather events on lives, livelihoods, and properties.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DENR highlighted the importance of proactive planning, proper coordination, and community participation in mitigating the impacts of the rainy season. The agency calls on everyone to participate in strengthening resilience, protecting lives, and safeguarding the environment.
The DENR announced that its Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has distributed geohazard maps to local government units for use in their disaster risk reduction and land use planning. These maps, also accessible to the public via an online portal, identify barangays most susceptible to floods and landslides.
The DENR underscored that families are on the frontlines of these weather events, highlighting the importance of preparations in securing the lives of their relatives, especially the most vulnerable, including children and the elderly. The agency recommended that families and the public keep updated through forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the MGB, and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) HazardHunter PH platform for real-time information on weather and hazards.
Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to watch for sudden changes in water level or color, as these may signal a flash flood. Those in hilly or mountainous terrain should monitor for cracks in the ground, tilting of structures, or unusual water seepage, which could indicate the possibility of a landslide. The DENR also recommended preparing a 'Go Bag' containing essentials such as first aid kits, food, water, flashlights, and important documents, and ensuring that family members are aware of evacuation plans and contacts outside their community.
The agency also stressed the significance of proper waste management, as blocked drainage systems from household trash often worsen flooding. Families were reminded to prune trees in their yards, after securing the necessary permits, to reduce damage from strong winds.
The DENR emphasized the critical responsibility of local governments in ensuring community safety. Barangay and city disaster offices should closely monitor rivers, streams, and road networks in high-risk zones, deploying personnel to issue timely advisories. Local government units were also advised to coordinate tree pruning activities near power lines with electric utilities, sustain cleanup drives to keep waterways clear, and prepare contingency plans for managing disaster waste.
To ensure community preparedness, LGUs should develop or update their contingency plans for disaster waste management. These plans should include assessments of the types and estimated volume of disaster waste that may be generated, the capacity of existing waste management facilities, and the designated sites for temporary waste storage, sorting, and processing. Regular updates to these plans are essential to reflect local capacities and address gaps. The integration of LGU activities and programs for disaster waste management is required to renew their 10-year solid waste management plans.
