Southwest monsoon to bring heavy rainfall across Luzon, Visayas

Heavy rainfall is expected to persist across portions of Luzon and the Visayas on Saturday, according to forecasts issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). The ongoing effects of the southwest monsoon, known locally as habagat, will drive the wet weather system across the archipelago. Meteorologists warn that the continuous heavy rain associated with the seasonal wind pattern poses risks of flooding and landslides in susceptible areas. Residents in low-lying communities and mountainous regions should exercise caution and monitor official weather updates throughout the day. Local government units have been advised to maintain preparedness measures and ensure evacuation routes remain accessible. The agency indicated that conditions may improve as the monsoon system weakens in subsequent days, though Saturday remains under heightened alert status.