CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Calabarzon has urged local government units (LGUs) to sustain preparedness efforts as the La Niña phenomenon continues to affect the region.
In a memorandum issued by RDRRMC Chairperson and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) IV-A Regional Director Carlos Eduardo Alvarez III, LGUs were urged to implement essential preparedness measures in response to the expected persistence of the La Niña phenomenon until March 2025.
These include conducting pre-disaster risk assessments, preparing evacuation centers and other critical facilities, and maximizing the use of local DRRM funds for disaster response initiatives.
Alvarez also emphasized the need for LGUs to enhance logistical capabilities and adhere to the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) LISTO preparedness protocols.
Member agencies and response clusters of the RDRRMC are also urged to maintain readiness to respond swiftly to the potential effects of La Niña.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recently confirmed the presence of La Niña in the Tropical Pacific. This condition, which began with the cooling of sea surface temperatures in September 2024 and intensified into a La Niña phenomenon by December 2024, is projected to persist until March 2025.
“With this development, higher chances of above normal rainfall in January – February – March 2025 season is expected, which may cause floods, flashfloods and rain-induced landslides,” said PAGASA.
“Furthermore, increased chance of tropical cyclone activity within the Philippine Area of Responsibility during the period is likely,” it added.
The RDRRMC Calabarzon also advised the public to take proactive measures, such as stockpiling essential goods, preparing emergency go-bags, and regularly monitoring credible government sources for weather advisories and warnings. (FSC, PIA 4A)
