MANILA — A 50-year-old man drowned in Bukidnon while attempting to rescue his livestock as Typhoon Inday continued to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing widespread flooding across parts of Mindanao and prompting class suspensions in Metro Manila and several Luzon provinces on Friday.
Disaster officials said the victim was swept away by strong river currents in Malaybalay City after trying to cross a swollen waterway amid heavy rains.
In Maguindanao del Norte, emergency responders used ropes to rescue residents stranded in waist-deep floodwaters after roads and nearby communities were inundated. Hundreds of families displaced by the flooding have been temporarily sheltered in evacuation centers as local authorities continue relief operations.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Typhoon Inday, although located far east of Northern Luzon and not expected to make landfall, continues to strengthen the southwest monsoon or habagat, drawing large volumes of moisture that are producing persistent rains over western and central sections of the country.
Suspended classes
The enhanced monsoon also prompted local government units across Metro Manila and parts of Luzon to suspend classes for Friday, July 10, after heavy rainfall caused flooding on several roads and raised concerns over commuter safety.
Traffic slowed significantly in several flood-prone areas as motorists and commuters encountered submerged streets and limited public transportation.
PAGASA warned that the enhanced monsoon is expected to continue through Saturday, increasing the risk of flash floods and rain-induced landslides, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas. Several northern provinces also remain under tropical cyclone wind signals due to the effects of Typhoon Inday.
Local disaster risk reduction offices advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, closely monitor official weather advisories, and prepare for possible evacuations should conditions worsen.
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