Heavy rains cause flooding, evacuations in Metro Manila; churches open as shelters

Relentless rains caused severe flooding in Metro Manila and some provinces in Luzon on Wednesday, July 24, turning streets into rivers and prompting evacuations.

Several churches under the jurisdiction of the Dioceses of Cubao, Novaliches, and Pasig have opened their doors to serve as evacuation centers for residents affected by the flooding brought about by heavy rains.

In Quezon City alone, over 25,867 individuals were evacuated as of 2 p.m., with more than 150 designated shelters across the city and additional church-based facilities provided by the Diocese of Cubao in parishes such as Holy Family Parish - Roxas, Our Lady of Pentecost Parish, and Immaculate Conception Parish.

Bishop Honesto Ongtioco of the Diocese of Cubao urged priests to open their churches to residents displaced by flooding, while Caritas in the Diocese of Novaliches reported that at least 4,747 families are currently sheltered in parishes and chapels with food, water, and medical assistance.

Residents in low-lying areas were advised to evacuate as floodwaters inundated their homes and streets, with basic necessities provided for evacuees at designated shelters.