PH rains, floods kill 7

MANILA - Heavy rains again pounded Metro Manila and nearby provinces overnight and throughout the morning, triggering massive flooding and stalling traffic in some areas. At least seven people were killed due to rains brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat) and tropical storm Maring. Eleven others are injured and four others remain missing. Flooding has been reported in Caloocan City, Valenzuela, Makati, Paranaque and Quezon City and has aggravated the situation in parts of Bataan, Cavite and Laguna, which have been placed under a state of calamity. Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo said the rains in Metro Manila will ease tonight at the earliest. La Mesa Dam has also reached spilling level. Classes, as well as work in government offices, the Senate and the judiciary, remain suspended in Metro Manila and nearby provinces for a second day. Trading was also suspended at the stock exchange while flights are also cancelled. ANC Dateline Philippines, August 20, 2013