Southwest monsoon brings heavy rain to fewer areas, but floods still likely
The southwest monsoon, or 'habagat,' has brought heavy rains to parts of the Philippines, particularly affecting Luzon and Western Visayas. While the intensity of rainfall is decreasing in some areas, PAGASA warns that flooding remains a risk due to already saturated soils. Moderate to heavy rains are expected in several provinces, including Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro, over the next few days. The La Mesa Dam in Quezon City has exceeded its spill level, raising concerns about potential flooding in nearby cities such as Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the weather conditions have caused at least eight deaths, nine injuries, and one person missing.
Class suspensions were declared nationwide on Friday, August 14, 2026, as heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon, known locally as habagat, disrupted daily life across multiple regions. Schools and government offices in 13 areas, including the National Capital Region, Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna, Quezon, and Occidental Mindoro, shifted to remote operations. The decision followed warnings from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), which had previously issued advisories about the intensity of the monsoon rains affecting parts of Luzon and the Visayas. The impact of the habagat was felt early in the week, with the MMDA announcing the suspension of its expanded number coding scheme on Friday due to the heavy rains. This measure aimed to ease traffic congestion and reduce the risk of accidents during the stormy conditions. The MMDA also confirmed that several areas in Metro Manila had already experienced flooding, prompting immediate action from its Flood Control Team to address blocked drainage systems and manage rising water levels. By Monday, August 17, the situation had worsened significantly. According to the MMDA, rainfall in Metro Manila reached 201.7 millimeters in just five hours, a figure close to the record set by Tropical Storm Ondoy in 2009, which brought 455 millimeters of rain in 24 hours. The heavy downpours led to widespread flooding, particularly in Quezon City and the City of Manila, where water levels rose rapidly. The MMDA deployed teams to clear drains and assist affected residents, though the scale of the flooding prompted further class suspensions across multiple provinces. On Tuesday, August 18, Malacañang extended the suspension of in-person classes and government operations to include additional areas, such as Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, and Benguet, among others. The move came as the habagat continued to dump heavy rain, forcing local governments to take proactive measures to protect their communities. In Cavite, for example, 14 local government units suspended classes due to the adverse weather conditions, highlighting the widespread nature of the disruption. The prolonged period of heavy rainfall, spanning over 10 days, resulted in an average of 483 millimeters of rain falling in Metro Manila. Data scientists warned that such extreme weather events underscore the urgent need for improved flood management infrastructure and more effective resource allocation for flood prevention efforts. Dr. Alicor Panao, an associate professor at the University of the Philippines, emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges to mitigate future risks posed by increasingly frequent and intense storms. In response to the growing concerns around misinformation, the MMDA launched an investigation into the circulation of manipulated images and videos depicting flooded areas, which were allegedly generated using artificial intelligence. The authority is working closely with law enforcement agencies to identify and address the spread of false content, ensuring accurate information reaches the public during critical times. The ongoing impact of the habagat has forced both local and national authorities to remain vigilant, implementing continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies to cope with the unpredictable weather patterns. With the threat of further rainfall persisting, officials continue to urge residents to stay informed and prepared for potential disruptions to daily activities.
Advertisement
Go to the primary sources (1)
The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.
Several areas in Metro Manila experienced flooding on Wednesday afternoon due to heavy rainfall caused by the southwest monsoon, known as 'habagat.' The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported varying levels of flooding across different locations, including Valenzuela City and Mandaluyong City. Some areas had water levels reaching up to 8 inches, though they were still passable for all types of vehicles. Flooding along F. Ortigas St. in Mandaluyong City had subsided by 1:53 p.m. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, heavy rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters was expected to continue in Metro Manila throughout Wednesday afternoon.
Bias read (Center): The article provides factual information about flood conditions in Metro Manila without any apparent ideological framing or biased language. It reports on the situation based on data from the MMDA and weather advisories from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administ
Why factuality (98): The article provides detailed information about flooded areas in Metro Manila, citing the MMDA and PAGASA. This aligns with other reports about the impact of the habagat on infrastructure and daily life.
Why objectivity (98): The article is mostly objective, though the inclusion of specific flood locations may give a slightly localized focus, which is appropriate given the nature of the report.
The southwest monsoon, known locally as 'habagat,' continues to affect parts of Luzon in the Philippines, bringing persistent rainfall. Meanwhile, other regions of the country are experiencing improved weather conditions. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the 5 a.m. weather forecast indicates ongoing rain in certain areas of Luzon but clearer skies elsewhere. This weather pattern is typical during this season and is being closely monitored by meteorological authorities.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on weather patterns without any political commentary, framing, or bias. It focuses purely on environmental conditions and does not involve political figures, policies, or contentious issues.
Why factuality (97): The article correctly states that the habagat will continue to bring rain to parts of Luzon while other regions experience better weather, citing PAGASA. This is consistent with other reports on the weather pattern.
Why objectivity (99): The article remains neutral and factual, providing a clear summary of PAGASA's forecast without any subjective commentary.
The southwest monsoon, known locally as 'habagat,' continues to affect the Luzon region of the Philippines, bringing heavy rainfall. The state weather bureau has issued a red rainfall alert for Ilocos Sur and Benguet, indicating potential rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters, which poses significant flood risks. This alert highlights the severity of the weather conditions and the need for residents to take precautions against possible flooding. The situation underscores the ongoing impact of seasonal weather patterns on local communities and infrastructure.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on environmental conditions and weather alerts, which are not inherently politically charged. It provides factual information about the habagat monsoon and the associated rainfall alerts without any apparent bias or political commentary.
Why factuality (97): The article accurately reports the ongoing habagat rains and the red rainfall alerts in Ilocos Sur and Benguet, citing the PAGASA forecast. It also references a satellite image, enhancing credibility.
Why objectivity (98): The article is written in a neutral tone, focusing on the official forecasts and warnings without any indication of bias or personal opinion.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued a yellow rainfall warning for Metro Manila and seven other areas in Luzon on Wednesday afternoon. This warning was prompted by the southwest monsoon, known locally as 'habagat.' The alert indicates heavy rainfall is expected in these regions, which could lead to flooding and other weather-related disruptions. PAGASA typically issues such warnings to inform the public and local authorities about potential hazards associated with severe weather conditions. Residents in affected areas were advised to take necessary precautions.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a weather advisory issued by PAGASA, focusing on meteorological information and safety alerts. There is no indication of political bias, framing, or emphasis on any particular political stance. The content remains strictly informational regarding weather conditions and their潜在
Why factuality (96): The article accurately reports the heavy rainfall warning issued by PAGASA for Metro Manila and parts of Luzon. This is consistent with other articles covering the same event.
Why objectivity (99): The article presents the information in a neutral manner, directly quoting PAGASA's advisory without any added interpretation or bias.
A family of four was rescued from floodwaters in San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur, on Sunday due to heavy rains caused by the southwest monsoon ('habagat'). The rescue operation involved police officers, fire protection personnel, and disaster risk reduction management staff. The incident highlights ongoing challenges posed by seasonal flooding in the region.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a natural disaster and the subsequent rescue efforts without taking a clear ideological stance. It focuses on the event itself and the collaborative response by local authorities, without emphasizing any particular political agenda or perspective.
Why factuality (95): The article clearly describes the rescue operation involving multiple agencies and provides a specific location (Ilocos Sur) and event (rescue of a family of four). This aligns with other reports about habagat-related incidents.
Why objectivity (98): The article is written in a neutral tone, focusing on the factual account of the rescue without injecting any personal opinions or biases.
Over 3,000 residents have been evacuated in Bacoor City, Cavite due to worsening flood conditions caused by heavy rains linked to the intensified southwest monsoon. Rescue efforts are ongoing as the local disaster risk reduction office coordinates with emergency services to manage the situation. The flooding primarily affects low-lying areas, highlighting the vulnerability of these regions during extreme weather events.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a natural disaster without overt ideological framing. While the event has political implications regarding disaster preparedness and governance, the tone remains neutral, focusing on the immediate impact and response rather than taking a partisan stance.
Why factuality (95): The article accurately describes the impact of the habagat in Bacoor City, including the number of evacuations and the role of the DRRMO. All claims are supported by the context of the event.
Why objectivity (98): The tone remains neutral throughout, simply relaying facts without injecting personal opinion or bias.
Flooding in Bulacan, Philippines, reached up to six feet in some areas on August 9, displacing approximately 11,535 people across 24 towns and cities. The floods were caused by heavy rains from the Habagat monsoon, high tides, and water discharge from local dams, including the Ipo and Bustos dams, as well as back-flooding from Pampanga. Several major roads became impassable due to the flooding, and multiple barangays experienced varying levels of inundation, ranging from 3.5 to 6 feet. Officials reported that the situation was exacerbated by flash floods originating from mountainous regions in Bulacan and neighboring Rizal province.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on natural disaster impacts and does not present any political opinions, framing, or biased language. It focuses on factual descriptions of the flood conditions, evacuation numbers, and contributing factors such as monsoons, tides, and dam releases. There is no indication of slav
Why factuality (95): The article provides detailed information about the extent of flooding in Bulacan, including specific measurements (6 feet) and the number of displaced residents (11,535). It cites the PDRRMO for these figures, ensuring accuracy.
Why objectivity (95): The article presents the information objectively, focusing on the factual details of the flooding and its impact without showing favoritism or bias.
A flood caused by the southwest monsoon (habagat) has impacted over 3,388 people across Oriental Mindoro, affecting 849 families. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) reported this information in a situation update dated August 8. The flooding and heavy rains have led to significant displacement and disruption in the region. While the exact extent of damage and recovery efforts remain under assessment, local authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information regarding the impact of natural disaster (flooding) on residents of Oriental Mindoro. It does not take a clear ideological stance, nor does it emphasize particular political agendas or parties. The focus remains on the humanitarian and administrative response
Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the number of affected individuals (3,388) and families (849) in Oriental Mindoro due to flooding from the habagat, citing the PDRRMO. The information is specific and aligns with typical reporting standards for such events.
Why objectivity (95): The article presents the facts neutrally, without any apparent bias or emotional language. It provides a straightforward account of the situation based on official sources.
The article reports on severe weather conditions caused by the tropical storm Habagat, which has led to heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in the National Capital Region (NCR) and other parts of the Philippines. As a result, thousands of residents have been evacuated to safer areas. The situation highlights the impact of extreme weather events on communities and the ongoing efforts of local authorities to manage the crisis. While the article provides updates on the evacuation process and flood risks, it does not delve into broader climate change implications or long-term mitigation strategies.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the immediate effects of the storm without overtly favoring any political agenda. It focuses on the humanitarian response and natural disaster management rather than taking a stance on policy or governance issues related to climate resilience or urban规划
Why factuality (90): While the headline states that thousands evacuated due to habagat rains causing flooding in NCR and other regions, it lacks specific details such as exact numbers or locations. However, this is consistent with other reports indicating widespread impact.
Why objectivity (95): The article avoids overtly biased language but is somewhat vague in its description. It does not provide enough specifics to determine if there is any underlying bias, though it remains generally neutral.
The Philippine government, through Malacañang, has mandated work-from-home arrangements for government offices in Metro Manila and 15 provinces in Luzon on August 10 due to anticipated heavy rainfall caused by the southwest monsoon (habagat). The decision was formalized under Memorandum Circular No. 123, which also mandates the suspension of face-to-face classes at both public and private schools across all educational levels. This measure aims to ensure safety amid potential weather-related disruptions. The directive applies to multiple regions, emphasizing the government’s proactive approach to mitigate risks associated with severe weather conditions.
Bias read (Center): The article reports a government directive related to weather preparedness and public safety. It presents the action taken by the administration without overtly favoring any political side. The framing is neutral, focusing on the practical implications of the weather advisory rather than commenting,
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the suspension of classes and work in Metro Manila and several provinces due to the habagat. This aligns with other articles discussing similar measures taken in response to the weather conditions.
Why objectivity (95): The article presents the information in a neutral manner, focusing on the official decisions without injecting personal opinion or bias.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has suspended the implementation of its expanded number coding scheme on Friday due to heavy rains caused by the southwest monsoon, known as 'habagat.' This decision comes amid ongoing weather-related disruptions across parts of Luzon and the Visayas. The number coding scheme is typically used to reduce traffic congestion by restricting vehicle movement based on license plate numbers. With the suspension, drivers are not currently subject to these restrictions. The MMDA issued an advisory confirming the suspension, citing safety concerns related to the adverse weather conditions.
Bias read (Center): The article reports a factual decision made by the MMDA regarding the suspension of a traffic management policy due to weather conditions. There is no evident framing that favors one political side over another. The content remains neutral, focusing on the cause (weather) and effect (policy change),
Why factuality (90): This article directly quotes the MMDA's advisory regarding the suspension of the number coding scheme due to heavy rains from the habagat. It provides clear and concise information that matches the cross-source consensus and accurately reflects the official statement.
Why objectivity (90): The article remains objective, presenting the MMDA's decision without commentary or emotional language. It focuses solely on reporting the official action without implying judgment or taking sides.
The Philippine government, through Malacañang, has instructed government offices and schools in 13 regions to implement remote work and learning arrangements on Friday due to ongoing heavy rainfall caused by the southwest monsoon (habagat). The affected areas include the National Capital Region, Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna, Quezon, and Occidental Mindoro. The decision aims to ensure safety amid adverse weather conditions.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual update on government action taken in response to natural weather conditions. There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on specific political agendas. The focus remains on administrative decisions based on environmental factors, which aligns with a neutral, cent
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the Palace's order for remote work and learning in 13 areas due to the habagat. This information is consistent with the other articles and reflects the official directive without embellishment or omissions.
Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral tone, simply conveying the government's directive without expressing approval, criticism, or any subjective interpretation.
Floods caused by continuous heavy rains from the southwest monsoon ('habagat') have affected residents and motorists in Bulacan, particularly in San Ildefonso town. Local authorities, including personnel from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), have been actively rescuing families stranded by rising floodwaters in Barangay Malipampang. The situation highlights ongoing challenges related to flooding in the region, though the article does not provide further details on the extent of damage or long-term mitigation efforts.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a natural disaster affecting local communities, focusing on the immediate impact and response by municipal authorities. There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on political agendas. The narrative remains neutral, centered on the event itself rather
Why factuality (90): The article reports on flooding in San Ildefonso, Bulacan, caused by the southwest monsoon. While it provides specific details about rescue efforts, it lacks some of the more precise data found in other articles, such as exact numbers of affected families or formal declarations of calamity. However,
Why objectivity (90): The article is mostly neutral but includes slightly more descriptive language when discussing the impact on residents and rescues, which may introduce a slight tilt toward emphasizing the human element rather than strictly factual reporting.
The article lists areas in the Philippines where classes were suspended for Monday, August 10, 2026, due to the impact of the southwest monsoon. It includes both Metro Manila cities and regions in Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal provinces. The suspension applies to all educational levels, both public and private, across these locations. The notice indicates that the list will be updated based on announcements from local or national authorities.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a routine administrative decision regarding school closures due to weather conditions. There is no indication of political bias or advocacy; it presents factual information without commentary or emphasis on any particular political stance.
Why factuality (90): The article clearly states class suspensions on Monday, August 10, 2026, due to the habagat. It lists affected areas and provides context, matching other reliable sources.
Why objectivity (90): The article presents information in a neutral manner, focusing on the facts without introducing subjective interpretation or emotional language.
The Philippine Daily Inquirer reports that flooding remains a potential risk in several areas of Metro Manila, Laguna, and Rizal due to ongoing heavy rainfall associated with the southwest monsoon, or 'habagat.' The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) issued a flood bulletin indicating that moderate to heavy rains continue across Luzon and Visayas. The report highlights the ongoing weather conditions but does not provide specific details on the extent of the threat or any immediate actions being taken by local authorities.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information based on a government agency's flood bulletin without overtly favoring any political stance. It focuses on the natural phenomenon and its impact, rather than taking a position on policy responses or political responsibility. The framing remains neutral, relying on an
Why factuality (90): The article correctly states that flooding remains possible in several areas in Metro Manila, Laguna, and Rizal due to the habagat. It cites Pagasa for the flood bulletin, indicating reliable sourcing.
Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the flood risk without taking sides or using emotionally charged language.
In the Philippines, classes and government operations were suspended in certain areas on Monday, August 10, due to heavy rainfall caused by the southwest monsoon, known locally as 'habagat.' The suspension was implemented to ensure safety amid the adverse weather conditions. The University of Sto. Tomas in Manila opted for online classes across all levels as an alternative to in-person learning. These measures reflect efforts to mitigate risks associated with severe weather, which can disrupt daily activities and pose hazards to people's safety.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a weather-related event affecting school and government operations. It does not present any political stance, framing, or biased language. The content is purely informational regarding the impact of natural weather conditions on public services and education.
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports class and work suspensions on Monday, August 10, due to heavy rains from the habagat. It includes specific locations and confirms the official cause, aligning with other sources.
Why objectivity (90): The article maintains an objective tone, providing factual information without emotional language or personal bias.
Heavy rains caused by the southwest monsoon, known locally as 'habagat,' led to fallen trees and a landslide in the Magsaysay area of Baguio City on Saturday evening. The event occurred along No. 8-B Private Road at 7:18 p.m., according to the Bureau of Fire Protection-Cordillera Administrative Region. Firefighters responded by conducting clearance operations and advising nearby residents to evacuate to ensure their safety.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a natural disaster caused by heavy rainfall linked to the southwest monsoon. It provides factual information about the incident, including the location, time, and actions taken by local authorities. There is no indication of political bias, framing, or emphasis on any specific
Why factuality (88): The article accurately describes the damage caused by the habagat in Baguio City, including fallen trees and a landslide. This aligns with other reports about the impact of heavy rains in different regions.
Why objectivity (92): The article presents the information in a neutral and factual manner, avoiding any emotional or biased language while describing the events clearly.
Heavy rains caused by Tropical Depression Maymay and the enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) have impacted 3,640 families in Rizal, Cavite, and Batangas, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The agency reported the situation based on information gathered from affected local government units. The flooding has likely caused displacement and hardship for residents, though specific details on damage or relief efforts were not provided in the report. The DSWD is monitoring the situation and coordinating with local authorities to address the needs of affected communities.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the impact of natural weather conditions on local populations, sourced through official channels (DSWD and local government units). There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on political agendas. The tone remains neutral, focusing on the effects
Why factuality (88): Similar to the previous article, this piece reports on the number of families affected in specific regions, using DSWD data. The information is consistent with other reports and reflects the broader impact of the weather event. Specific numbers and locations are provided, supporting the factual natu
Why objectivity (90): The article maintains an objective tone, focusing on the impact of the weather event and the response efforts. There is no evident bias or emotional language, keeping the reporting neutral.
The southwest monsoon, known as Habagat, dumped 201.7 mm of rain in five hours on August 17, 2026, in Metro Manila, leading to significant flash flooding. This rainfall was measured at the Science Garden Station in Quezon City by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), with data reported by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). The heavy rain caused water levels to rise rapidly, particularly between noon and 2 p.m., when 138 mm of rain fell in just two hours, resulting in flooding in areas like Quezon City and Manila. The MMDA deployed its Flood Control Team to address blocked drainage systems and mitigate the impact of the floods.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on meteorological data and flood management efforts without taking a stance on political issues. It focuses on factual information regarding rainfall measurements and the response by local authorities, avoiding any ideological framing or biased language.
Why factuality (85): The article reports rainfall measurements from the MMDA using Pagasa data, which aligns with the cross-source consensus. It compares the rainfall to Ondoy 2009, which is a known historical reference. The article provides specific times and locations, showing factual detail. However, it includes a br
Why objectivity (90): The article presents information neutrally, focusing on facts like rainfall amounts and comparisons to past events. It avoids emotional language and remains focused on reporting the situation without taking sides.
The Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that some classes will be suspended on Monday, August 17, due to the southwest monsoon, known as 'habagat.' The article lists areas that have announced class suspensions and advises readers to check for updates by refreshing the page. The decision was made to anticipate potential bad weather conditions associated with the monsoon.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about school closures due to weather conditions without taking a partisan stance. It provides factual updates and does not frame the issue in a politically charged manner. The focus is on administrative decisions based on meteorological factors rather than political,
Why factuality (85): The article reports on class suspensions due to the habagat, which is a known meteorological phenomenon in the Philippines. It provides the date and mentions the reason for the suspension without adding speculative information. The information aligns with typical reporting on weather-related school
Why objectivity (90): The article presents the information in a neutral tone, focusing on the facts without expressing any opinion or bias. It uses standard journalistic language and does not attempt to influence the reader’s perspective.
How each side covered it
The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.
progressive
center
conservative
★
How each side covered it
Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.
PH
![[Vantage Point] Drowning in concrete: Why our flood control fails](https://images.weserv.nl/?url=newsinfo.inquirer.net%2Ffiles%2F2026%2F09%2FLeyte-Upper-Mahiao-2-19September2026.jpg&w=3840&q=75&output=webp&we)
