BY: ANGELICA ARQUERO
The southwest monsoon, locally known as “Habagat,” has started bringing rain to different parts of the country, signaling that the rainy season is near.
Despite the rain in Baguio City, tourists like Jessa Rose, who traveled from Bicol, remain unfazed.
“The cold weather here is really nice,” Jessa shared. “Where I’m from, it’s hot, so this is a great change.”
Lorence Lee and her group from Ilocos Sur also braved the rainy weather.
“It’s usually hot where we live, so we wanted to cool off before classes start,” Lorence said. “We didn’t expect it to rain, but we’re enjoying it because it’s not crowded.”
They are among many tourists visiting Baguio to experience the city’s cool climate despite the rain.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the current weather is an indicator that the Habagat is coming.
Engr. Larry Esperanza, Chief Meteorological Officer of PAGASA Baguio, explained, “This is a transition period showing the southwest winds starting to blow. While it’s not officially declared, it’s a sign that we are moving into the rainy season.”
No exact date has been set for the official start of the rainy season.
Esperanza advised the public to stay alert for any possible weather disturbances. “Currently, there are no typhoons, only low-pressure areas that have not developed yet. PAGASA predicts 11 to 20 tropical cyclones this season.”
The Habagat wind flow is expected to continue until Sunday, affecting various parts of the country.
