President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has assured the public that the national government has activated all relevant agencies to respond to widespread flooding caused by the southwest monsoon or “habagat.”

In a recorded message from Washington, DC, made public late Monday night, Marcos said he had instructed key agencies to prepare ahead of the severe weather conditions and ensure that necessary aid and services reach affected communities.

The President said the Office of Civil Defense, Department of Transportation, Department of Health, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Energy, and Department of the Interior and Local Government have been mobilized to coordinate efforts.

Relief goods and medical teams have been deployed to affected areas, while critical utilities, such as water, electricity, and transport services are being secured.

“Nandito kami lagi upang magbigay ng lahat ng serbisyo na kailangan sa harap ng hamon ng climate change (We are always here to provide all necessary services in the face of climate change),” Marcos said.

He urged the public to stay alert, follow weather updates, and heed instructions from local government units to ensure their safety.

“Siguraduhin natin mas lalo pang mapalakas ang kakayahan ng pamahalaan na tumugon sa ganitong klaseng sitwasyon (Let’s make sure we further strengthen the government’s capacity to respond to these kinds of situations)” he said.

Marcos is in Washington, DC from July 20 to 22 for an official visit upon the invitation of US President Donald Trump to deepen Philippine-US bilateral ties in defense, trade, and climate resilience. (PNA)