Manila

The death toll from floods and landslides in the Philippines, worsened by Typhoon Gaemi and the southwest monsoon, has risen to 21, according to police reports on Thursday. The fatalities include seven in Manila, three in Cavite, five in Batangas, and three in Rizal. There was also one death in Bulacan and two in Angeles City, Pampanga.

The primary causes of death were drowning, landslides, fallen trees, and electrocution. Typhoon Gaemi, which has now left the Philippines, was the third typhoon to hit the country this year. It brought heavy rains, leading to flash floods and landslides across Metro Manila and other regions.

Gaemi caused significant damage, submerging and destroying homes, especially in coastal and riverside areas, and sweeping away vehicles. Many displaced residents spent the night in temporary shelters such as covered courts, schools, and churches while waiting for the floodwaters to recede.

The Philippines, situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire and the typhoon belt, is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, experiencing about 20 typhoons annually, some of which are severe and destructive.