CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Calabarzon has called on local government units (LGUs) to sustain and enhance preparedness efforts as the La Niña phenomenon continues to impact the region.
In a memorandum issued by RDRRMC Chairperson and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) IV-A Regional Director Carlos Eduardo Alvarez III, LGUs were directed to implement critical preparedness measures in anticipation of the La Niña phenomenon, which is expected to persist until March 2025.
Key recommendations include conducting pre-disaster risk assessments, preparing evacuation centers and other essential facilities, and utilizing local DRRM funds for disaster response initiatives. LGUs were also urged to enhance logistical capabilities and strictly follow the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) LISTO preparedness protocols.
RDRRMC member agencies and response clusters were likewise instructed to maintain readiness for swift action against potential La Niña-related disasters.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) confirmed the ongoing La Niña phenomenon in the Tropical Pacific, which began with the cooling of sea surface temperatures in September 2024 and intensified by December 2024. The condition is projected to last until March 2025, bringing above-normal rainfall and increased risks of floods, flash floods, rain-induced landslides, and heightened tropical cyclone activity within the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
“With this development, higher chances of above-normal rainfall during the January to March 2025 season are expected, which may cause floods, flash floods, and rain-induced landslides,” PAGASA said in its advisory.
The RDRRMC also encouraged the public to take proactive measures, such as stockpiling essential goods, preparing emergency go-bags, and monitoring credible government sources for weather updates and warnings.
As La Niña continues to pose significant risks, the RDRRMC reiterated the importance of vigilance and collaborative efforts to minimize potential impacts on lives and property.