By Benjamin Cuaresma
MARIKINA CITY — Alarm bells are ringing in Marikina as the Marikina River climbed to 60 meters at around 11 a.m., triggering preemptive evacuations in low-lying communities and areas long vulnerable to flooding.
At least 106 families, or more than 700 residents, have already moved to designated evacuation centers as authorities brace for further rises in the river amid continuing heavy rain.
Among those evacuated were residents of Barangay Tumana, one of the communities regularly threatened by overflowing waters.
The Marikina City government has activated relief measures, including the distribution of hot meals to evacuees, while emergency personnel continue monitoring the river and flood-prone areas.
Marikina Rescue 161 remains on alert as downpours continue to batter the city, raising concerns that conditions could deteriorate rapidly.
The city government also announced through its Public Information Office that classes in all levels will be suspended tomorrow in both public and private schools as a precautionary measure.
Authorities urged residents in vulnerable communities to remain alert, follow evacuation instructions and closely monitor official advisories.
With heavy rain still falling, the situation remains fluid—and every additional rise in the Marikina River could bring more communities within the reach of dangerous flooding.
