The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) said the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) are on high alert to assist local government units (LGUs) in responding to the effects of Severe Tropical Storm Falcon and the southwest monsoon (Habagat).
In a statement, DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said that all hands are on deck to protect the safety of citizens in affected communities while the majority of Luzon remains soaked due to inclement weather.
Abalos noted that the DILG is also collaborating closely with relevant national government entities to organize support and assistance for vulnerable local government units (LGUs).
Communication with the governors of affected regions is presently ongoing to address preventative and reaction activities, as severe rains and flooding are likely over the next few days as Falcon strengthens the southwest monsoon, he added.
Abalos also asked local governments to continue evacuating impacted families and individuals, particularly in hard-hit areas and areas experiencing heavy flooding.
He likewise urged the public to remain watchful and to assist authorities in their disaster response operations.
Furthermore, he asked local governments to enforce the no-sailing rules for fishermen and seafaring boats in areas where gale warnings had been issued.
