Latest news with #SherylinUntalan
GMA Network
5 days ago
- Climate
- GMA Network
UST baccalaureate mass rescheduled to May 31 due to heavy rain
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has announced that the Baccalaureate Mass, originally scheduled for May 30, has been rescheduled to Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. due to inclement weather. The Office of the Secretary-General issued the advisory late Friday afternoon as rains, brought on by the start of the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), continued to drench Metro Manila. "We wish everyone a safe way home," the statement read. The Baccalaureate Mass is a long-standing tradition at UST, serving as a solemn sendoff for graduating students. The rescheduling aims to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. The unexpected weather coincided with the official announcement from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), declaring the start of the Southwest Monsoon, locally known as Habagat. 'Recent weather analysis has shown the persistence of low-level southwesterly winds over the western section of Luzon and the Frontal System over Extreme Northern Luzon. These developments indicate the beginning of the Southwest Monsoon in the Philippines,' PAGASA said in its May 30 bulletin. As Habagat takes hold, more frequent rains and thunderstorms are expected across the western parts of the country, including Metro Manila, where UST is located. PAGASA warned that these conditions may lead to flash floods and rain-induced landslides, particularly during intense rainfall.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
6 days ago
- Automotive
- GMA Network
Tacloban under state of emergency amid San Juanico Bridge concerns
The Tacloban City Council declared Thursday a state of emergency as access to San Juanico Bridge, which links the islands of Samar and Leyte in Eastern Visayas, remains limited ahead of planned repairs on the structure. According to a statement by the city's information office, the declaration seeks to quickly mobilize resources while ensuring public safety. "With restricted access to San Juanico, the main gateway in and out of Tacloban, the city is facing serious concerns related to economic flow, emergency response, and supply chain delays," the statement read. It added, "This declaration allows the local government to act faster, allocate emergency funds, and coordinate with national agencies for support." In the same announcement, the Tacloban information office noted that Section 16 of the Local Government Code and other national disaster protocols provides for a state of emergency declaration "when public safety is at risk or when immediate action is needed to respond to a crisis or disruption of essential services." San Juanico Bridge, a major artery for the transport of goods, medical supplies, and essential travel, has experienced restricted access in recent days, raising concerns over economic disruptions and emergency response delays. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has said the cost of emergency repairs on the San Juanico Bridge could reach some P500 million. A recent assessment by the DPWH raised concerns about the bridge's structural integrity. As part of precautions, DPWH has temporarily prohibited vehicles weighing more than three tons from crossing the 2.16-kilometer bridge. Since May 18, pedestrians have been prohibited from crossing the bridge on foot. Instead, they should use coasters and light vehicles for their safety. The Samar Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council earlier recommended to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan the declaration of a state of emergency in the province. Built in 1969 and completed in 1973, San Juanico Bridge is the the third longest bridge spanning a body of seawater in the Philippines. — Sherylin Untalan/ VDV, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
20-05-2025
- Climate
- GMA Network
Heavy rains trigger flash floods in parts of Mindanao; two dead
Despite the absence of any storm, continuous rain has caused flash floods in parts of Mindanao, leading to the deaths of two individuals who were swept away while bathing in a waterfall. In a report by Chino Gaston for 24 Oras, residents of Barangay Kakub in Koronadal City were startled after witnessing a woman being carried away by a raging stream. According to locals, the sudden surge of water came from a nearby waterfall and its adjoining creek. A few minutes later, the woman's body was found roughly two kilometers downstream. Shortly afterward, a man was also found lifeless in the creek. Residents quickly worked together to retrieve him. Both victims sustained head injuries and other wounds, likely caused by being slammed into rocks and debris as they were swept by the current. Initial investigations revealed that the two—identified as acquaintances, one a teacher and the other a delivery rider—were bathing in the upper part of the creek when a sudden surge of water occurred. Authorities believe the rapid rise in water level was caused by heavy rainfall and worsening weather conditions. In Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, strong currents rendered some roads impassable. Heavy rains caused a nearby creek to overflow, submerging roads and leaving motorists stranded for over an hour. Meanwhile, in Barangay Lasang, Davao City, parts of the National Highway became impassable due to the overflow of the Licanan River. The situation worsened as it coincided with high tide. More than 20 families living near the riverbanks in Sitios Licanan, Aris, Lituan, and Virgo were affected. Floodwaters also inundated Barangay Bunawan Proper, displacing around 69 families. State weather bureau PAGASA said the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is responsible for the current bad weather affecting Mindanao. Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert and take necessary precautions. — Sherylin Untalan/BM, GMA Integrated News
