Manila, Aug. 30 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring the situation in areas affected by heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat), Malacanang said Sunday.

"Laging tutok ang Pangulo sa sitwasyon. Mino-monitor ang kalagayan ng mga kababayan natin at ng mga bayan na apektado (The President is fully focused on the situation, closely tracking the welfare of our countrymen and the affected areas)," Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a statement.

Castro said the President has directed government agencies to ensure prompt assistance to those affected by the heavy rains.

"Iniutos at pinaalalahanan ang mga ahensya ng pamahalaan ng mabilis na pagtugon sa mga kailangan ng mga biktima ng matinding buhos n...