The state weather bureau in the country formally announced the start of the rainy season on Friday.

It said "the passage of Tropical Storm Dante and the occurrence of widespread rainfall monitored by Philiipine Atmospheric, Geophysical, Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in the last five days for areas under Type I climate confirm the onset of the rainy season."

"Intermittent rains associated with the southwest monsoon will continue to affect Metro Manila and the western section of the country," it added.

"The probability of near to above normal rainfall conditions is high in the next two months (June-July). However, breaks in rainfall events (also known as monsoon breaks), which can last for several days or weeks, may still occur," it added.

As the PAGASA continues tomonitor the situation, it also advised the public and all concerned agencies to take precautions against the impact of the rainy season. Robina Asido/DMS