Valenzuela under state of calamity

The local government of Valenzuela City on Thursday declared a state of calamity in response to widespread flooding caused by days of heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon and tropical storms “Crising,” “Dante” and “Emong” between 21 and 23 July 2025.

Mayor Wes Gatchalian announced that the Sangguniang Panlungsod approved Resolution No. 3503, Series of 2025, during a special session last 24 July and the declaration followed formal recommendations from the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (LDRRMC) and various barangays, which reported extensive flooding, infrastructure damage and community disruption.

At the height of the floods, more than 9,000 individuals were rescued and evacuated to temporary shelters by the Valenzuela City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (VCDRRMO), in coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the City Health Office.

These departments led the city’s emergency response, focusing on the safety, health and welfare of affected residents.

Gatchalian said that the state of calamity declaration enables the swift utilization of local disaster funds, provides emergency assistance and accelerates recovery and rehabilitation efforts in affected areas. It also facilitates coordination with national agencies and humanitarian partners for delivering needed support.

“We cannot disregard the impact of this typhoon on our workers and marginalized sector, which is why we have declared a state of calamity in our city,” Gatchalian said in a Facebook video message.

“I call on our citizens to remain alert and cooperate, as our collective action and response are greatly needed by our beloved city,” he added.

The city government also launched “Libreng Sakay” operations along heavily affected routes to assist stranded commuters, ensuring safe and free transportation to and from key areas.

Relief operations and health services are continuing in evacuation centers, while post-flood assessments are underway to guide the next phase of recovery.

The local government remains on heightened alert as continuous rains from tropical storms “Dante” and “Emong” may cause additional flooding and damage. All relevant offices are on standby for further emergency deployments.