About 11,000 residents were displaced after water levels in the Marikina River surged to the second alarm on Monday, August 10 although some evacuees have begun returning home as weather conditions improve.

As of noon on Aug. 10, the Marikina River remained under second alarm, indicating water levels of more than 16 meters and prompting preemptive evacuations in low-lying communities near the river, according to local authorities.

As reported by RH Edniel Parrosa, the floodwaters had already overflowed onto the Bayan Access Road, surpassing the river’s railings. The Santo Niño Bridge, a key gauge used by the Marikina City government to determine alert levels, showed readings consistent with second alarm status.

Despite easing rains, authorities said the threat of flooding persists, prompting some residents to remain in evacuation centers.

At Malanday Elementary School, one of the largest evacuation sites in the city, several displaced residents have started returning to their homes to begin cleanup efforts.

“Yung iba nag-stay dito kasi naglilinis pa sila. After nila maglinis, naayos na yung bahay nila tsaka sila uuwi,” a local official said.

Others, however, have opted to remain in evacuation centers due to the continuing risk posed by elevated river levels. They are receiving assistance from the local government and volunteers as the southwest monsoon continues to affect parts of Luzon.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and urged residents living near the river to stay alert for further advisories.