Philippines hit by cyclones and monsoon, killing 23

Tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay, combined with the southwest monsoon (habagat), have caused widespread devastation across the Philippines. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reports that at least 23 people have died due to landslides, drowning, rockslides, falling trees, and electrocution. The highest number of fatalities occurred in Benguet, with 15 deaths recorded.

Approximately 5 million people, representing roughly 1.4 million families, have been affected across 10 regions, including Metro Manila, Cagayan Valley, and Bicol. Thousands of individuals are currently seeking shelter in hundreds of evacuation centers nationwide. The storms have also caused significant property damage, destroying or partially damaging nearly 1,850 houses.

Economic impact is substantial, with agricultural losses estimated at approximately 689.66 million pesos. In response to heavy rains, local and central governments in several provinces have implemented adjusted working hours. Meanwhile, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) continues to monitor two low-pressure areas outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.