Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso declared a state of calamity in Manila due to persistent flooding on Tuesday, July 22, caused by continuous southwest monsoon (habagat) rains.

The declaration is intended to hasten emergency response and provide immediate relief to affected residents across the city.

Barangay officials have been directed to evacuate residents in flood-prone areas, particularly those near rivers and other waterways.

As of 3 p.m. today, the city has already opened 22 evacuation sites and evacuated over 3,500 individuals.

Domagoso also announced that the city's 104 public schools under the Schools Division Office (SDO) can now be used as official evacuation centers to accommodate the growing number of displaced families.

For residents stranded by floods, SM San Lazaro and SM Manila have offered temporary assistance by opening their parking areas free of charge until 9 p.m.

Both malls are also extending support to evacuees by providing free WiFi access to help them stay connected and informed during the emergency.

Domagoso urged all barangay chairpersons to take immediate action for their constituents’ safety.

“Kung ang baranggay niyo ay baha na at kailangan niyo ilikas ang mga kabaranggay, maaari na po kayo magtungo sa malapit na paaralan sa ating mga baranggay (If your barangay is already flooded and you need to evacuate your constituents, you may proceed to the nearest school in your area)," he said.

The Manila City Government continues to closely monitor the situation and is encouraging the public to stay tuned to official announcements through Mayor Isko’s Facebook page and the city's social media platforms for the latest updates on flood levels, road conditions, evacuation sites, and other critical services.