Republic of the Philippines

DILG: LGUs Begin Early Recovery, Rehab in Quake-Hit Areas by Optimizing LDRRMF In the wake of the Magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu and nearby provinces, Local Government Units (LGUs) have begun implementing early recovery and rehabilitation efforts, utilizing their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF) to support affected communities. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) affirmed that LGUs are now maximizing the use of their LDRRMF in accordance with Republic Act No. 10121, ensuring a swift and effective transition from immediate response to long-term recovery. Under RA 10121, LGUs are mandated to allocate at least 5% of their estimated revenue for disaster risk reduction and management. Of this, 30% is earmarked as a Quick Response Fund (QRF) for immediate needs, while the remaining 70% supports preparedness, prevention, and rehabilitation programs. LGUs have started utilizing the fund to provide essential services, including temporary shelter, food, alternative livelihoods, and medical assistance. In severely affected areas, recovery efforts are now focused on rebuilding homes, restoring public infrastructure, and improving disaster resiliency in line with the “Build Back Better” framework. The LDRRMF also enables the procurement of critical equipment such as early warning systems, portable generators, fire extinguishers, chainsaws, and floodlights, enhancing the capacity of local responders to manage current and future emergencies. To ensure transparency and proper use of public funds, all expenditures are guided by the LGU’s Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (LDRRMP) and Annual Investment Program (AIP). Releases from the QRF also require a sanggunian resolution or a declaration of a state of calamity. The DILG commended proactive LGUs that have swiftly activated their recovery protocols and urged others to continue optimizing available resources for the benefit of their constituents. According to the latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the earthquake has resulted in fatalities. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited Cebu on Thursday and announced P50 million in assistance to the provincial government, along with P20 million in direct support to severely affected LGUs such as Bogo City, Sogod, and San Remigio. Additional aid from the Office of the President will be extended to other municipalities in the coming days.###

Pahayag ng DILG para sa mga Pamilyang Nawalan ng Mahal sa Buhay sa Lindol sa Cebu Ipinapaabot ng DILG ang aming  pakikidalamhati sa mga pamilya ng mga nasawi sa naganap na lindol sa Cebu kagabi.  Panalangin rin namin ang mabilis na panunumbalik ng lakas at kalusugan ng mga sugatan. Kasunod ng direktiba ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., inatasan na namin ang Bureau of Fire Protection na tumulong sa mga isinasagawang search and rescue operations.  Ang Philippine National Police naman ay tumutulong din sa rescue efforts at sinisiguro ang kaayuusan at kapayapaan sa mga komunidad.   Nananawagan kami sa lahat ng mga lokal na pamahalaan at iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan na magkaisa para alalayan at suportahan ang mga apektadong pamilya.  Sa gitna ng trahedyang ito, magbayanihan tayo upang tulungan sa pagbangon ang Cebu at iba pang karatig na lugar. Muli, taos-puso ang aming pakikiramay at panalangin para sa kaligtasan at kagalingan ng lahat.  Kasama ninyo ang DILG at ang buong pamahalaan sa panahon ng matinding pagsubok na ito. ###

DILG CALLS ON LGUs TO TAKE URGENT ACTIONS FOLLOWING 6.9 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE IN CEBU The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging all concerned local government units (LGUs), especially those in affected areas, to immediately implement critical response and preparedness measures following the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Bogo City, Cebu at 9:59 PM on Tuesday. According to PHIVOLCS, the epicenter was located 19 kilometers northeast of Bogo City at a depth of 5 kilometers. Intensity VII (Destructive) was reported in Bogo, Daanbantayan, Medellin, San Remigio, Tabuelan, and Cebu City, while Intensity VI (Very Strong) was felt in parts of Masbate and Negros Occidental. A total of 379 aftershocks, ranging from magnitude 1.4 to 4.8, have been recorded as of 4:00 AM, October 1. In response, the DILG urged LGUs to convene their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (LDRRMCs), activate Emergency Operations Centers and Incident Management Teams, and mobilize Barangay DRRMCs for close monitoring of weakened structures and geohazard areas. Local Chief Executives must lead rapid damage assessments, prioritizing critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and lifelines. Evacuation of communities in high-risk zones is strongly advised. LGUs must ensure the structural safety of evacuation centers and public buildings, and utilize open spaces as temporary shelters where needed. Vigilant monitoring of old or damaged structures is critical, particularly in areas prone to landslides or further shaking from aftershocks. LGUs are also reminded to activate their contingency and public service continuity plans, conduct resource inventories, preposition emergency supplies, and coordinate with neighboring LGUs, national government agencies, and the private sector for humanitarian support. Communication lines must be operational, and timely updates must be relayed through television, radio, and social media to keep communities informed. The DILG said small-scale mining operations in affected or high-risk areas must be suspended immediately for safety. To support these actions, DILG Regional Offices are directed to activate their respective Emergency Operations Centers and the Disaster Online Reporting and Monitoring System (DORMS). Local governments are also reminded to implement the minimum critical preparedness actions outlined in the Operation L!STO Earthquake Preparedness Manual, accessible at https://bit.ly/LISTO-Earthquake.  Hazard assessment tools such as HazardHunterPH (https://hazardhunter.georisk.gov.ph) must be used to evaluate local risk and inform planning. All advisories from PHIVOLCS should be closely monitored via https://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph The DILG emphasizes that the success of response and recovery efforts depends on the immediate, coordinated, and proactive leadership of LGUs. With the threat of continuing aftershocks, swift and decisive action is non-negotiable. ###

DILG: LGUs LEAD DISASTER MONITORING AND RESPONSE IN LINE WITH PBBM’S DIRECTIVE FOR STRONGER LOCAL PREPAREDNESS The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today said local government units (LGUs) nationwide, in coordination with other agencies and stakeholders, is leading proactive disaster monitoring and response operations as the combined effects of the Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Cyclones Mirasol, Nando, and Opong continue to bring widespread rains and flooding to many provinces. This coordinated effort reflects the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen local preparedness, ensure timely response, and reinforce close coordination between national and local governments to protect communities from the impacts of natural hazards. Based on the latest NDRRMC report as of 6:00 AM on September 30, swift pre-emptive evacuations were carried out in Regions I, II, CAR, III, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V, VI, NIR, and Caraga, enabling the early and safe relocation of 115,900 families or 414,000 individuals ahead of the storms. This decisive action reflects strengthened coordination between LGUs, national agencies, and communities in safeguarding lives. LGUs and their local disaster councils, working closely with the DILG, have activated emergency operations centers, monitored weather developments, issued early warnings, and deployed quick response teams to manage the situation on the ground. According to the Department, these actions demonstrate the vital role of LGUs in frontline disaster response and the effectiveness of a whole-of-government approach when coordination is strong and early actions are taken. Interruptions to power, water, communication, and transportation systems are being addressed through ongoing clearing and restoration operations led by LGUs in coordination with national agencies. The Department emphasized that it continues to closely monitor the situation through its regional and field offices, provide guidance to local governments, and coordinate with relevant national agencies to ensure that response operations are timely, well-managed, and focused on protecting communities. A total of 53 cities and municipalities have declared a state of calamity to accelerate local response and mobilize resources. Assistance from national and local governments has reached ₱204.71 million, alongside 147,300 relief items distributed to affected families and responders. The DILG reiterated its call for LGUs and communities to work hand in hand in sustaining preparedness and vigilance, especially as rains continue in several areas. “Kapag listo ang lahat, mas ligtas ang bayan,” the Department stressed. Disaster preparedness and strong local leadership remain at the core of building safe and resilient communities under the Bagong Pilipinas vision. ###

Local Price Monitoring Councils strengthen measures to safeguard consumers in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclones Nando and Opong In response to the recent impacts of Tropical Cyclones NANDO and OPONG, and in line with the President’s directive to implement a Price Freeze in affected areas, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued an advisory to strengthen the monitoring of prices of basic commodities. The Local Price Monitoring Councils are to intensify their efforts to ensure compliance by business establishments with regulations on Automatic Price Control, Price Freeze, and mandated price ceilings. This initiative aims to prevent unwarranted price increases and address supply shortages caused by the recent calamities. All Local Chief Executives, through their respective Local Price Coordinating Councils, are urged  to immediately implement coordinated emergency measures to protect consumers and stabilize local markets. These measures include: Conducting immediate monitoring of prices and supply of basic and prime commodities in the affected areas following the calamities or the declaration of a state of emergency; Identifying additional essential items that may not traditionally be classified as basic necessities or prime commodities but have become critical due to the emergency situation; Increasing the frequency of monitoring as necessary, focusing on items experiencing price fluctuations or supply shortages, with only such items to be reported; Submitting timely reports to the Secretariat of the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) to facilitate efficient coordination and response; and Adjusting the frequency of monitoring and reporting as market conditions stabilize, with a reduction of activities once prices and supply normalize. The DILG calls on all stakeholders, including business establishments and consumers, to cooperate fully in this collective effort to maintain fair market practices and ensure the availability of essential goods during this challenging period. ###

DILG to Albay LGUs: Implement Urgent Preparedness Measures Against Possible Mayon Lahar Hazards Amid Tropical Cyclone “Opong” The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is calling on all Local Chief Executives (LCEs) in Albay Province to undertake immediate and proactive preparedness actions in anticipation of possible lahar flows from Mayon Volcano due to heavy rains expected from Tropical Cyclone “Opong.” According to the latest DOST-PHIVOLCS Lahar Advisory, intense rains beginning this afternoon, September 25, through Friday, September 26, may remobilize loose volcanic materials deposited from past eruptions, particularly in the Miisi, Mabinit, Buyuan, and Basud Channels. These may generate dangerous lahar flows and sediment-laden streamflows that can cause flooding, burial, and washout in downstream communities. Areas at particular risk include the Miisi, Binaan, Anoling, Quirangay, Maninila, Masarawag, Muladbucad, Nasisi, Mabinit, Matanag, Basud, and Bulawan Channels in Albay. The DILG directed all LCEs to coordinate closely with the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) V to maintain vigilance and readiness in lahar-prone zones. LGUs must monitor weather conditions and carry out preemptive response measures to ensure public safety. LCEs are expected to convene their respective Local DRRM Councils and conduct Pre-Disaster Risk Assessments (PDRA) with focus on lahar hazards in coordination with DOST-PHIVOLCS, DENR-MGB, and other concerned agencies. These assessments must cover updated data on high-risk settlements, deployment of personnel for mapping and damage assessments, validation of safe evacuation sites and routes, and contingency planning specific to lahar threats. Other critical LGU actions include: conducting an inventory of available manpower and resources, particularly in high-risk barangays; ensuring effective communication systems; prepositioning rescue assets; and initiating preemptive or mandatory evacuations when necessary. The DILG Regional Office V, in coordination with the RDRRMC V, is tasked to ensure that all LGUs in the province implement the minimum preparedness measures recommended by DOST-PHIVOLCS. This directive is aligned with the call of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen climate resilience and disaster response capabilities of local government units. The President has emphasized the need for anticipatory action to protect lives and livelihoods, especially in climate-vulnerable areas such as Bicol. ###

DILG TO LGUs: STEP UP ACTION VS MARINE LITTER, INTEGRATE INTO SOLID WASTE PLANS The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging all local government units (LGUs) to ramp up efforts against marine pollution by integrating marine litter initiatives into their solid waste management programs. Citing the growing threat of plastic waste in rivers, waterways, and coastal areas, the DILG emphasized the urgent need for stronger local action to prevent waste from reaching the ocean. LGUs were reminded of their legal mandates under the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003) and the Local Government Code to ensure proper waste segregation, collection, and disposal, and to take active measures to protect the country’s marine and freshwater ecosystems. Under DILG Memorandum Circular 2025-099, LGUs are expected to conduct regular clean-up drives — ideally every Saturday — in coastal and riverine areas, mobilizing communities to participate in keeping waterways clean. The DILG also encouraged the use of tools like floating trash traps and sea bins to prevent litter from entering bodies of water, and to conduct plastic waste audits and surveys to support evidence-based policymaking. Local governments are also reminded to enhance their waste disposal systems by establishing sanitary landfills, implementing clustered landfill arrangements, or partnering with private service providers to ensure that collected waste is properly managed. The DILG stressed the importance of collaboration across sectors, urging LGUs to work closely with national agencies, civil society, private companies, and academic institutions to support clean-up efforts, strengthen education campaigns, and develop long-term solutions to reduce plastic waste. Coastal LGUs, in particular, are advised to partner with maritime agencies to address waste coming from fishing boats and other water vessels. LGUs are also asked to include marine litter reduction targets in their 10-year Solid Waste Management Plans and to measure and report on the contributions of barangays and local organizations toward these goals. The circular likewise reminded all LGUs to lead community-wide participation in observance of International Coastal Clean-Up Day on the third Saturday of September and to sustain these efforts beyond the annual event. This issuance supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s broader environmental agenda, particularly his commitment to climate resilience, clean oceans, and sustainable development. The DILG emphasized that combating marine litter is not just an environmental responsibility—it is part of building safer, cleaner, and more resilient communities in line with the President’s push toward a circular economy and a greener Philippines. ###

DILG: LGUs urged to brace for TC Opong as it threatens Nando-affected regions The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) today called on all local government units (LGUs) to activate preparedness and mitigation measures as Tropical Cyclone (TC) Opong is expected to affect areas still reeling from the impact of Super Typhoon Nando. In an Advisory, the DILG said Opong is likely to prolong adverse weather conditions across Metro Manila, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and Western Visayas. These regions remain vulnerable following Nando’s recent onslaught. “This overlap in affected areas could result in compounding hazards such as heightened risk of flooding, landslides, and overflowing river systems, particularly in communities where the ground is already saturated from previous rains,” the Advisory stated. The DILG reiterated its call for LGUs to implement critical preparedness measures under Operation Listo protocols down to the barangay level, especially in areas that have recently experienced extended rainfall, flooding, or landslides. LGUs are reminded to preposition supplies and equipment for response operations. Punong Barangays are likewise urged to implement preparedness actions guided by the Listo si Kap manual. LGUs in high-risk areas are directed to convene their respective local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) and conduct pre-disaster risk assessments for storm surge, floods, debris flow, strong winds, and other hydrometeorological hazards to determine the necessary actions. LGUs are also instructed to ensure timely preemptive or mandatory evacuation in communities under warnings of heavy rainfall and potential flooding. The DILG further encouraged LGUs to sustain continuous monitoring and coordination, undertake clean-up and clearing operations, declog drainage systems, inspect critical infrastructure, ensure the readiness of evacuation centers, and intensify public information campaigns to keep communities informed and safe. According to PAGASA’s Tropical Cyclone Bulletin issued at 11:00 AM today, Opong is forecast to make landfall over Bicol Region by Friday afternoon and traverse Southern Luzon from Friday afternoon until Saturday morning. It is expected to intensify over the Philippine Sea and may reach typhoon strength before landfall. ###

President Marcos Orders national agencies, LGUs to bolster readiness for Typhoon Opong, ensure safety of citizens Upon the instruction of the President, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has placed local government units (LGUs) on heightened alert as Severe Tropical Storm Opong (Bualoi) intensifies and threatens multiple regions across the country. As of 5:00 PM, September 24, 2025, Opong packs maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h, bringing heavy to torrential rains and posing high risk to communities along its forecast track. Alert Level Charlie (Red) covers 16 provinces directly threatened within a 100-kilometer diameter radius. These include Albay, Bataan, Batangas, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Cavite, Laguna, Marinduque, Masbate, Metro Manila, Northern Samar, Occidental Mindoro, Quezon, Rizal, and Sorsogon. Areas under this level should prepare for intense winds and torrential rainfall that may cause flooding, landslides, and damage to critical infrastructure. Alert Level Bravo (Orange) covers 10 provinces within a 300-kilometer diameter radius, including Aurora, Bulacan, Eastern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Oriental Mindoro, Pampanga, Romblon, Samar, Tarlac, and Zambales. These areas may experience strong winds up to 85 km/h and heavy to intense rains. Alert Level Alpha (Yellow) extends to 27 provinces within a 700-kilometer diameter radius, including Abra, Aklan, Antique, Benguet, Biliran, Bohol, Capiz, Cebu, Dinagat Islands, Guimaras, Ifugao, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Isabela, Kalinga, La Union, Leyte, Mountain Province, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan, Pangasinan, Quirino, Southern Leyte, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur. These areas are expected to experience moderate to heavy rains and winds up to 45 km/h. The Department calls on all LGUs within the affected areas to activate Operation L!STO protocols, ensure preemptive evacuation of at-risk communities, and secure evacuation centers with adequate food, water, and medical supplies. Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees are reminded to intensify ground monitoring and coordinate with local police, fire, and rescue units. As mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the DILG is ensuring that LGUs strictly carry out preparedness and response measures to safeguard lives and communities. Maging #LISTO. Ang kahandaan ang magliligtas ng buhay. The DILG Central Office Disaster Information Coordinating Center (CODIX) continues to monitor developments and provide real-time advisories to LGUs and the public. The Department also calls on the public to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and cooperate with local authorities, especially when evacuation orders are issued. For reference, LGUs may access the following manuals:*Operation L!STO Manual for Typhoon: [http://bit.ly/LISTO_Manual_v3](http://bit.ly/LISTO_Manual_v3) *Operation L!STO Manual for Localized Weather Disturbances: [http://bit.ly/LISTO_Manual_LWD](http://bit.ly/LISTO_Manual_LWD) *Operation L!STO Protocol for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases: [http://bit.ly/LISTO_MEID_v1](http://bit.ly/LISTO_MEID_v1)###

PDILG: Strong internal collaboration drives PH engagement with ASEAN The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) highlighted the importance of strong internal coordination in sustaining the Philippines’ active role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as the country prepares to host the ASEAN Summit in 2026. During the 3rd ASEAN Ambassadors Dialogue held on Monday, DILG Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon underscored that effective diplomacy begins with cohesive teamwork within government institutions. She led the Department’s internal preparations for the Dialogue, ensuring that all discussions reflected the priorities of the Philippines and aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas.” “The DILG recognizes that external relations are only as strong as the unity we cultivate within. By working together across our bureaus and attached agencies, we are able to project a clear, consistent voice in ASEAN platforms,” De Leon stressed. The Dialogue brought together ASEAN leaders to exchange strategies on regional governance, disaster preparedness, and peace and security. The DILG delegation, composed of Undersecretaries Marlo Iringan and Rolando Puno, along with Atty. Jon Paulo Salvahan, emphasized the Department’s active role in the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC), the ASEAN Mayors Forum, and the Smart Cities Network. Philippine National Police Lt. Gen. Bernard Banac and Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Marshall Louis Alferez also participated in the discussions, reflecting the government’s whole-of-nation approach to international engagement. Assistant Secretary De Leon noted that the Philippines’ credibility in ASEAN stems from deliberate preparation and internal collaboration. “Our commitment to ASEAN is not just seen in meetings and statements. It is built day by day through the discipline of coordination, the strength of teamwork, and the resolve to represent our people well,” she said. As the Philippines builds momentum toward hosting the ASEAN Summit in 2026, the DILG reaffirmed its commitment to working hand-in-hand with both domestic agencies and regional partners to ensure that Southeast Asia remains a community of peace, progress, and resilience. #DILGNatin