Marcos: Metro Manila may declare state of calamity due to flooding

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. stated on Wednesday that local chief executives in Metro Manila have the authority to declare a state of calamity due to widespread flooding and heavy rains caused by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon.

During an ambush interview, Marcos clarified that national intervention is only necessary if three regions are affected by the disaster.

The president emphasized that declaring a state of calamity allows local governments to access emergency funds and implement relief operations more swiftly.

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. recommended declaring a state of calamity in Metro Manila due to extensive flooding, prompting the Metro Manila Council to convene later Wednesday for a decision.

Large portions of Metro Manila and nearby provinces were flooded amid heavy overnight rains brought by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon or Habagat.