Manila: The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced on Thursday the onset of the rainy season. Occasional to frequent rains associated with the southwest monsoon, known locally as "habagat," have been observed over the past five days.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nathaniel Servando, the PAGASA Administrator, indicated that this development signifies the onset of the rainy season across the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas. PAGASA also noted that periods of reduced rainfall, often termed monsoon breaks, might occur, lasting for several days or weeks.

The agency cautioned that with the looming El Ni±o, there is a high likelihood of enhanced "habagat" rainfall over the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas during the season. PAGASA urged the public and relevant agencies to implement precautionary measures against the adverse impacts of the rainy season.