Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring the situation in areas affected by heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat), Malacañang said Sunday. According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the President is fully focused on the situation, closely tracking the welfare of the countrymen and the affected areas. Castro emphasized that the President has directed government agencies to ensure prompt assistance to those affected by the heavy rains. Government agencies were ordered and reminded to swiftly address the needs of those affected by the heavy rains. Continuous heavy rains brought by the habagat have caused flooding in several areas in Luzon, particularly in Central Luzon and Metro Manila.