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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Luzon devider Monsoon havoc: Zambales declares state of calamity over P690 M in damage

Monsoon havoc: Zambales declares state of calamity over P690 M in damage

Published Aug 23, 2026 02:33 pm
Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. (center) inspects the condition of rivers and collapsed bridges in various areas in Zambales that were damaged by flooding caused by the continuous southwest monsoon.
Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. (center) inspects the condition of rivers and collapsed bridges in various areas in Zambales that were damaged by flooding caused by the continuous southwest monsoon.
IBA, Zambales – Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. has declared the province of Zambales under a state of calamity, after more than P690 million worth of infrastructure and agricultural damage was caused by the recent southwest monsoon, or 'habagat'.
The declaration was based on the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) through a resolution submitted to the Zambales Provincial Council on August 19, 2026.
It was noted that the combined monsoon and tropical cyclones resulted in widespread flooding, landslides, infrastructure damage, and agricultural losses, disrupting work and transportation while displacing thousands of residents from their homes.
Ebdane reported that total damage to infrastructure and agriculture reached P689,934,396.90, while major infrastructure damage in Districts 1 and 2 was estimated at P569,268,797.73, with a possible replacement cost of P1,284,434,539.32.
Damage to flood control infrastructure was estimated at P96,850,131.06, while repairs and rehabilitation would require P114,000,000. Agricultural damage reached P22,711,668.11 after severe flooding destroyed rice and vegetable crops.
The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) reported a total loss of 190 livestock worth P1,103,800 and the continuous rains from the intensified monsoon caused flooding in many areas of the province, forcing 5,770 families or 17,317 individuals to evacuate to evacuation centers and other safer locations.
According to Ebdane, the damage to critical and vital infrastructure, especially roads, bridges including the Santa Fe Bridge and extensive flood control structures, has severely affected the accessibility and delivery of essential assistance to affected communities.
Ebdane, as regional chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC), recommended that the DPWH and other relevant national agencies consult with local governments to expedite the process. "In this regard, we can reduce government costs by using the 'by administration' method, or direct project management."

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