Manila, Aug. 9 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed concerned government agencies to remain on heightened alert and closely coordinate water releases as the enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) continues to affect several parts of the country.

The President is closely monitoring the situation, particularly in flood-prone areas and communities near dams and reservoirs where water levels are rising, Malacanang said Sunday.

Marcos ordered agencies to take necessary preventive measures to protect communities and critical infrastructure and ensure coordinated management of water releases.

"The President is closely monitoring the impact of the habagat, particularly the situation in flood-prone areas and the rising water levels ...