DILG tells local gov’ts to brace for southwest monsoon’s effects

Children wear protective rain gears as elementary school classes in Manila are called off due to Typhoon Conson on July 13, 2010.  (AFP photo / JAY DIRECTO )

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) directed local government units (LGUs) to prepare for the impact of the southwest monsoon (habagat).

The department is referring to the warm, moist winds that bring heavy rains.

The onset of the habagat season was declared last Friday by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

“The DILG urged LGUs to adopt proactive measures anchored on Operation Listo protocols for hydrometeorological hazards to minimize risks to lives, property and the local economy,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday.

Operation Listo is the DILG’s disaster preparedness program.

The agency further directed LGUs to activate their local incident management teams and ensure their emergency operations centers have adequate personnel and equipment.

The LGUs have also been advised to inspect and keep their evacuation centers up to date with safety standards.

READ: Habagat season starts – Pagasa

“LGUs are also advised to revise their contingency and action plans based on local assessments of areas prone to floods, storm surges and landslides,” the DILG said.

“They should conduct simulation drills and community exercises to test response and evacuation procedures,” it added.