Monsoon Onslaught Continues: PAGASA Warns of More Deluge Across Metro Manila and Luzon

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The skies have yet to offer mercy.

As Metro Manila and large swaths of Luzon reel from days of relentless downpour, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued a sobering declaration on the morning of July 22: the worst may not be over. With swollen rivers, flooded communities, and paralyzed urban centers already straining under the monsoon’s weight, new threats loom on the horizon.

According to PAGASA, the southwest monsoon—or habagat—is far from finished soaking the nation. Fueled by a brewing storm system in the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), the rains are expected to intensify and persist until at least Thursday, July 24.

What began as seasonal showers has now evolved into a prolonged weather crisis with life-threatening consequences.

Relentless Rain, Mounting Risks

The forecast is grim.

July 22 (Tuesday):

Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, and Occidental Mindoro will bear the brunt of heavy to intense rainfall, with amounts ranging from 100 to 200 millimeters—enough to submerge streets, cut off communities, and destabilize hillsides.

Neighboring provinces like Pangasinan, Tarlac, Laguna, and Quezon will also experience moderate to heavy rains.

July 23 (Wednesday):

The deluge continues to spread, covering not only the previous day’s provinces but now reaching the Ilocos Region, Bicol, Western Visayas, and parts of Mimaropa. A massive swath of the country will be drenched, as rainfall totals threaten to trigger widespread flooding and dangerous landslides.

July 24 (Thursday):

The monsoon’s wrath shifts further north, placing Ilocos Norte, La Union, Pangasinan, Abra, and Benguet under high alert. Even as rainfall slightly weakens in Metro Manila, hazards remain with saturated ground and overwhelmed drainage systems unable to cope.

Double Threat: Two LPAs Brewing

PAGASA is also tracking two low pressure areas (LPAs) that could strengthen into tropical depressions—adding even more fury to the monsoon’s rampage.

The first LPA, spotted 1,140 kilometers east of Central Luzon, is already given a high chance of becoming a tropical depression within 24 hours.

The second LPA, 370 kilometers east of Calayan, Cagayan, has a medium chance of development but is already affecting Cagayan Valley with scattered thunderstorms.

Should either LPA intensify into a tropical cyclone, it may not make direct landfall, but it will amplify the southwest monsoon, according to PAGASA Weather Specialist Obet Badrina. The next named storm in the Philippine cyclone lineup will be Dante—a name that could soon carve itself into another chapter of 2025’s turbulent weather history.

Suspended Lives, Submerged Realities

As the rain pounds on, life halts in many areas.

Malacañang swiftly suspended classes in all levels and government work across Metro Manila and 10 other severely affected provinces, including Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Pangasinan, Tarlac, and Occidental Mindoro.

The images emerging from affected communities paint a portrait of distress:

Students trudging through waist-deep floods in Quezon City.

Jeepneys abandoned as operators halt routes.

Emergency responders struggling to reach stranded families.

For many, the monsoon isn’t just a seasonal nuisance—it is a relentless siege on safety, security, and stability.

The Bigger Climate Picture

Already, the Philippines has weathered three tropical cyclones in 2025, with two in July alone—Typhoon Bising (Danas) and Severe Tropical Storm Crising (Wipha). As global temperatures continue to rise, extreme weather events are growing in frequency and ferocity, a stark reminder of our vulnerability in the face of climate change.

The habagat, once predictable, now behaves erratically. And while the country’s disaster response has improved in the last decade, the challenge grows steeper with every storm surge, landslide, and flooded barangay.

Call to Vigilance and Action

As communities across Luzon brace for more rainfall, vigilance is paramount. PAGASA urges all residents in high-risk areas to monitor advisories, prepare emergency supplies, and avoid travel unless necessary.

Beyond individual preparedness, this is a clarion call for policy action, infrastructure resilience, and climate accountability. The deluge is not merely a force of nature—it is a test of leadership, compassion, and foresight.

Because as the rain continues to fall, it exposes more than just the streets—it lays bare the fragility of our systems, the courage of our people, and the urgency of change.

Follow Wazzup Pilipinas for real-time weather updates, ground reports, and stories from the heart of the storm.

Miss Philippines Earth 2025: Celebrating "The Silver Lining"

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As 2025 unfolds, Miss Philippines Earth (MPE) is poised to mark a monumental occasion: its Silver Anniversary. This year, the pageant embraces the deeply resonant theme of "The Silver Lining," symbolizing hope and the enduring strength of its environmental advocacy amidst global challenges.

Since its inception, MPE has been a powerful force in promoting environmental awareness across the Philippines. Through various on-ground events and widespread media campaigns, the organization has consistently engaged diverse audiences in crucial initiatives.

A Legacy of Green Advocacy 

MPE's commitment to the environment is evident in its long-standing activities, which include:

Tree and mangrove planting

Clean-up drives 

Inspiring young learners through school visits 

Advocating for the preservation of 

Flora and Fauna and heritage 

Counteracting climate change 

Promoting eco-tourism in the Philippines 

Lorraine E. Schuck, Co-Founder of MPE and Executive Vice President of Carousel Productions Inc., proudly states that Miss Philippines Earth has become a "leading trendsetter for environmental awareness, sustainable living and eco-tourism boosters." She emphasizes that their "Beauties for a Cause" leverage the MPE platform to contribute meaningfully to their country.

Resilience Through Adversity 

The journey for Miss Philippines Earth hasn't been without its share of difficulties, particularly during the pandemic. However, the organization demonstrated remarkable 

resilience, evolving and revolutionizing the pageant industry despite the trials and tribulations it faced. This unwavering dedication to its cause, even in the face of environmental and worldly conflicts, is truly the "silver lining" of its legacy.

The 2025 Candidates: Hope Incarnate

The Miss Philippines Earth 2025 candidates embody this spirit of hope and dedication. Hailing from various cities and Filipino communities worldwide, these women are not just competing for a crown; they are champions for diverse environmental causes, each presenting their unique "Silver Lining" advocacy.

Here are some of the inspiring candidates and their advocacies:

Antipolo City: Liz Mabao – Corporate Treasurer, focusing on "Microbiomes of the Ecosystem."

Bacoor City: Joy Barcoma – LGU Consultant, with "Disaster Resiliency" as her silver lining.

Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya: Athena Inocencio Lodovico – Psychology Student, advocating for "F.A.R.M. (Fostering Amelioration in Regenerative Agriculture and Mitigation)."

Cabanatuan City: Vhiana Patrish Hernandez – Nursing Student, championing "Sustainable Healthcare & Waste Management."

Cabatuan, Isabela: Abegail Manangan – Management Accounting Student, with "Tree Planting" as her focus.

Filipino Community of England, UK: Keren Grace Siapno – Finance Administrator, advocating for "Sustainable Farming."

Filipino Community of Hawaii, USA: Joahnna Lee Longos Ucol – Digital Producer, focusing on "Eco Wellness."

Impasug-ong, Bukidnon: Maria Erra Ocon – Public Administration Student, dedicated to "Nature Preservation."

Imus City: Martina Marciano – Entrepreneurship Student, with "Environmental Education" as her advocacy.

La Paz, Leyte: Angel Rose Campo Tambal – Engineer II, focusing on "Sustainable Engineering."

Las Piñas City: Juliana Denise Tan – Entrepreneurship Student, advocating for "Eco Consumerism."

Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental: Quench Gift Gundayao Espantaleon – Graduate, promoting "Eco Tourism."

Malaybalay City: Dane Amante – Nursing Student, championing "Native Plants Preservation."

Maramag, Bukidnon: Aldren Ross Balaba – Marketing Head, focusing on "Ancestral Guardianship."

Marikina City: Lorea Balbueno – Tourism Student, advocating for "Green Living."

Filipino Community of Melbourne, Australia: Alexa Roder – Paralegal, with a focus on "Zero Waste Mindset."

Naujan, Oriental Mindoro: Myrea Caccam – LGU Administrative Officer, promoting "Waste Management."

Filipino Community of Osaka, Japan: Shervi Yumeno – Marketing Graduate, focusing on "Sustainable Living."

Pandi, Bulacan: Chelsey Gwyneth G. Dela Cruz – Student Entrepreneur, advocating for "Green Business."

Parañaque City: Justine Giannatopacio – Model/Classical Singer, focusing on "Arts & Culture."

Pasig City: Chlarence Danica Sanchez – Business Executive, with "Sustainability" as her silver lining.

Pililla, Rizal: Aian Claire Colendres – Psychology Student, advocating for "Environmental Education."

Quezon City: Zoe Beatrice Cruzada – Public Relations Officer, focusing on "Clean Nuclear Energy."

Filipino Community of Rome, Italy: Kate Gatpandan – Sustainable Tourism Sciences Student, with "Environmental Voices" as her advocacy.

San Fernando, Bukidnon: Ellamarie Andricoso – Volunteer Teacher, focusing on "Voice of Eco Change."

San Miguel, Bulacan: Jhanine Custodio – Teacher, advocating for "Environmental Education."

Tagkawayan, Quezon: Ryza Mendoza – English Education Student, focusing on "Marine Biodiversity."

Talakag, Bukidnon: Kriezl Jane Torres – Civil Engineering Student, advocating for "Eco-Green Building."

Filipino Community of Tallahassee FL, USA: Jaymie Strickland – Education Student, focusing on "Ocean Conservation."

Filipino Community of Tampa FL, USA: Faith Laurese Edwards – Information Technology Student, with "Natural Habitats" as her silver lining.

Teresa, Rizal: Althea Jhamielle Paz – Broadcasting Student, focusing on "MRE & Sustainability."

Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay: Jean Escandallo Bolonias – Secondary Education Graduate, advocating for "Eco Progress."

Valencia City: Alexandra Pasayon – Teacher, focusing on "Mental Health."

Vigan, Ilocos Sur: Austhrie Sanchez – Biology Graduate, promoting "Sustainable Ecotourism."

Zamboanga City - East Coast: Kylie Anne Atilano – Business Administration Student, focusing on "Sustainable Farming."

Zamboanga City - West Coast: Vanessa Kang – Legal Management Student, advocating for "Youth Ecological Consciousness."

"Tresha: Treasures from Trash" 

Adding to its impactful initiatives, Miss Philippines Earth supports "Tresha: Treasures from Trash." This advocacy-driven project, in collaboration with Alpha Distinct Development Solutions, the Ms. Earth Foundation, Project HOPE (Harnessing Opportunities for People and the Environment), and Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the Muntinlupa City Jail Female Dormitory, creates stunning, handmade accessories from recycled PET bottles.

These unique creations will be proudly worn by the Miss Philippines Earth 2025 candidates, symbolizing beauty, sustainability, and the profound impact of redemption, resilience, and second chances. Every purchase of Tresha accessories supports the CORAL Movement (Conservation of Ocean Resources and Aquatic Life), extending the impact to protect our oceans and marine biodiversity. This initiative is made possible by the collective efforts of Heirs of the World Inc. (HOW), the Philippine Alliance for Sustainable Solutions (PASS), and Balikatan sa Kaunlaran National Foundation Inc. (BSK), all united in empowering lives and protecting the planet.

Grand Coronation and Broadcast Details 

The highly anticipated Silver Anniversary milestone celebration and Coronation will take place on August 10, 2025. Environmental enthusiasts and pageant fans can witness this grand event streamed live on the MPE Facebook and YouTube channels, as well as on Kapamilya channels.

Miss Philippines Earth 2025 is more than just a pageant; it's a testament to hope, resilience, and unwavering dedication to nurturing our planet. It promises to be an inspiring celebration of beauty with a purpose, shining brightly for the world to see.

Special thanks to the generous sponsors, including Hana Shampoo (Major Sponsor), GRR, Bingo Plus, The Studios, Eventista, Viking, Cocolife, Sunsmart Solar Power Technology Inc., Lustra, and Janoin Cosmetic Surgery.

Special thanks to the media partners, including DZMM Radyo Patrol 630, Win Radio 91.5 Manila, Monster RX93.1, DZMM Teleradyo, The Manila Times, SAKSI, Klik.ph, Best Magazine, The Daily Tribune, Love the Philippines, MMDA, Pacific Blue, Glitter, TouchArt, and of course WazzupPilipinas.com highly supports this pageant. 

“Dynasties or Democracy?”: Kiko Pangilinan’s Lone Crusade to End Political Inheritance in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a country where surnames often spell electoral victory more than sound policies ever could, one man is once again daring to challenge the deeply entrenched bloodlines of power.

Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan has reemerged as a singular force battling the behemoth that is Philippine political dynasties. On July 9, 2025, he filed the Anti-Political Dynasty Act of 2025, a bold and sweeping piece of legislation that seeks to shatter the unbroken chain of familial dominance in politics — a chain that has held the nation hostage since long before the first ballots were cast under a democratic constitution.

His words cut deep: “Political power and public service must never be treated as a birthright.” A stinging rebuke to those who wear their lineage like a crown, Pangilinan’s message is clear: leadership is a responsibility, not an heirloom.

A 40-Year Broken Promise

The Philippine Constitution of 1987 contains a promise — an explicit mandate to prohibit political dynasties. It was written in the ashes of a dictatorship, envisioned to restore fairness and give every Filipino an equal shot at public service. But nearly four decades later, that promise remains just that: unfulfilled, ignored, and buried under a mountain of vested interests.

Pangilinan’s bill seeks to finally breathe life into this skeletal provision, defining dynasties with precision and laying down strict prohibitions: no two relatives within the second degree — parents, children, siblings, grandparents, in-laws — may hold or run for multiple elective posts at the same time, or one after another. Even if no one from the family is currently in office, a candidacy would be barred if it results in dynastic succession or simultaneous power consolidation.

This is not Pangilinan’s first attempt. The 61-year-old lawyer, farmer, and stalwart of the Liberal Party has filed similar bills in the 17th, 18th, and 19th Congresses — all of which quietly died in committee, stifled by those who stood to lose the most. And yet, he remains undeterred.

The Power of the Few in the Poverty of the Many

The 2025 midterm elections only made the case for reform more urgent. According to data from the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, 87% of governors, 80% of congressional district representatives, and 53% of mayors now hail from political dynasties.

Eighteen “obese dynasties” — clans with five or more elected members — emerged from the polls. Over 800 positions went uncontested, further highlighting the stranglehold these families have on democracy.

Worse still, these dynasties often dominate the poorest provinces in the country. In places where survival trumps idealism, political clans control both resources and narratives, offering aid in exchange for allegiance, and making it nearly impossible for newcomers to compete.

The vicious cycle is clear: power fuels wealth, and wealth fortifies power — generation after generation.

Public Momentum and a Viral Call to Action

On July 16, Pangilinan released a video breaking down his bill. It wasn’t just an explainer; it was a call to arms. In the video, he reminded viewers, “The leadership is not an inheritance. It should be earned through trust, not passed within one clan.”

The video went viral, igniting support across social media platforms. Netizens, many of them young and disillusioned, responded with fervor. For a generation that has only ever known politics dominated by the same last names, the idea of change — even symbolic — felt revolutionary.

With two other senators from opposing camps filing companion bills in the incoming 20th Congress, there’s a glimmer of hope that this push may be different. Even President Bongbong Marcos, scion of the country’s most notorious dynasty, said he was “open” to reviewing the measure — a statement many view with skepticism but also with strategic curiosity.

Will the 20th Congress Pass the Ultimate Test?

Still, hope clashes with reality. An estimated 70% of lawmakers in Congress belong to dynasties. Many rotate positions among family members to skirt term limits — a legal workaround that has birthed what scholars call “fat dynasties.” Local posts with three-year terms become a game of political musical chairs among relatives, all while ordinary Filipinos remain locked out.

“It’s a stacked deck,” says political analyst Julio Teehankee. “But public pressure could tip the scales.”

The bill grants enforcement powers to the Commission on Elections, which could disqualify candidates motu proprio or based on public petitions. Citizens may also file quo warranto petitions to challenge illegal dynastic posts. Disqualification and even criminal liability await those who defy the law, if passed.

Pangilinan remains grounded, if not galvanized, by the odds. “This is not just a legal fight — it’s a democratic one,” he declared in a press release dated July 18.

A Nation at a Crossroads

As the 20th Congress prepares to convene, one question looms: Will the Philippines finally choose reform over relationships? Or will yet another attempt to unshackle democracy from its dynastic captors collapse under the weight of self-interest?

This isn’t just a test of legislation — it’s a test of national will. Of whether a country long dominated by family names can carve a future where merit, not lineage, determines who leads.

Senator Pangilinan has drawn the line in the sand. Now, it is up to Congress — and the people — to decide whether they will cross it, or remain shackled to the past.