AT LEAST eight dioceses across the regions are currently being monitored closely by the humanitarian arm of the Catholic Church in the Philippines amid the devastating effects of Tropical Cyclone Crising and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat).
In its Situation Report 1, Caritas Philippines reported that the Dioceses of Imus, Malolos, Novaliches, Bacolod, and Masbate; the Archdioceses of Nueva Segovia, and Lipa; and the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan are under close monitoring.
"Ongoing monitoring is being conducted by the affected dioceses. Information and updates are being disseminated in real time through the social media platform and group chat," said Caritas Philippines.
As of Tuesday, July 22, 2025, it said affected communities are in need of food items and non-food items, such as thermal kits, hygiene and dignity kits.
"In later days, cash-based intervention can be applied as a strategy in areas, where flooding had already subsided and markets are functional," said Caritas Philippines.
Since last week, Crising and the Southwest Monsoon have severely affected different parts of the country with torrential rain and massive flooding.
Data shows that some 225,985 families or 800,864 persons in at least 12 regions were affected by the twin weather disturbances.
According to Caritas Philippines, it is also preparing to launch a local emergency appeal for the benefit of the communities affected by the twin weather disturbances.
"Caritas Philippines is preparing to launch a possible local emergency appeal through the Alay Kapwa Solidarity Fund," said the organization.
"This appeal will be announced during the televised daily Mass to mobilize immediate assistance for communities affected," Caritas Philippines added. (Anton Banal/SunStar Philippines)