PH Red Cross warns vs effects of southwest monsoon

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) reminded the public to take precautionary measures against flooding and landslides that may be brought by the southwest monsoon or “habagat."

In a statement, PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Rochard Gordon reiterated the importance of calamity preparedness and encouraged everyone to keep in mind the 4 Ps of disaster: Predict, Plan, Prepare, and Practise.

On Saturday, Aug. 20, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGSA) said that it is monitoring a low-pressure area located 930 kilometers east of Central Luzon.

This weather disturbance may intensify the southwest monsoon and could bring rains over Visayas and western section of Mindanao, PAGASA weather specialist Benison Estareja said in a live weather forecast.

PRC assured that it is ready to respond to any emergencies and disasters in line with its objective to save lives and its mantra of "Volunteers + Logistics + Information Technology = a Red Cross that is Always First, Always Ready, Always There."

The organization's emergency response units, rescue vehicles, and other response equipment are on standby for deployment if needed, said PRC.