Jakarta — Intense monsoon rains are battering Southeast Asia, prompting flood alerts across Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, as regional governments race to contain the impact of rising water levels and landslides.
In Davao City, Philippines, the spotlight is on flood control projects under scrutiny for alleged mismanagement and irregular spending, drawing criticism from local watchdogs and environmental groups. Residents have reported severe waterlogging and infrastructure damage in several low-lying areas.
Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the stormy weather hasn’t dampened economic momentum — the nation’s apparel exports surged to a record $1 billion, driven by strong demand from the US and Europe, and diversification away from China amid global supply chain shifts.
Meteorological agencies warn that the monsoon pattern could intensify over the next week, urging precautionary measures in vulnerable coastal and agricultural zones.
