DSWD shifts to red alert as habagat threatens more communities

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 29, 2026

Photo Courtesy: DSWD

MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development has raised its readiness to red alert as prolonged southwest monsoon rains continue to threaten parts of Luzon and the Visayas.

The heightened alert took effect Friday following the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s decision to raise the national alert status amid ongoing weather disturbances.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said field offices are on heightened alert, with relief teams and resources ready for immediate deployment should flooding and displacement worsen.

More than 3.4 million family food packs are currently prepositioned in warehouses and strategic locations nationwide, while the DSWD Central Office has PHP558.77 million in Quick Response Funds available for emergency operations.

The agency is also coordinating closely with local governments in areas vulnerable to flooding and displacement to ensure faster delivery of assistance.

Dumlao urged residents to remain vigilant and follow official weather and disaster advisories, particularly from PAGASA and their respective LGUs.

As the habagat refuses to let up, the DSWD is making sure its relief lines are ready before the next wave of flooding arrives.