Why Flood Protection is Essential Even in Low-Risk Areas
September 5, 2025
In the Philippines, flooding has long been associated with coastal towns, riverside communities, and areas near estuaries. But in recent years, floods have struck in unexpected places, from urban subdivisions on higher ground to newly developed communities outside of Metro Manila.
As the climate crisis intensifies and development spreads rapidly, no area is truly flood-proof, and the notion that homes far from bodies of water are safe from flooding is becoming increasingly outdated. Here’s why protecting your home is essential, even if you live in a so-called “safe zone” in the Philippines.
1. Typhoons Are Getting More Intense
- The Philippines is hit by around 20 tropical cyclones every year, with stronger, more unpredictable typhoons becoming the new normal. Super Typhoons like Ondoy, Yolanda, and Ulysses have shown that no area is truly immune to flooding. Recently, even areas on higher ground have experienced flash floods due to heavy rainfall and overflowing drainage systems.
- Fast-growing cities like Cebu, Davao, and most especially Metro Manila are experiencing unchecked development. Since subdivisions, malls, and roads have replaced open land, there's less soil to absorb rainfall, leading to flooding even during moderate rain. Furthermore, many of the drainage systems are outdated, poorly maintained, or simply not built to handle today's rainfall volumes.
While the government offers help during natural disasters, this usually comes in the form of temporary shelter, basic goods, and small cash assistance– not nearly enough to recover your home or replace your belongings. In the event of an unexpected natural disaster, what you need most is immediate financial assistance that allows you to begin repairs, replace items, and resume your normal life. This is when insurance comes in handy. For an added premium, Paramount’s Fire and Allied Perils provides indemnity against physical loss or damage to your property caused by natural disasters like typhoons, floods, and more. For more information, visit https://plgic.ph/FireandAlliedPerils.
The world is shifting, and with it, the climate we live in. Flooding is no longer confined to communities near rivers or seas—it now affects places once considered safe. This reality reminds us that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere, making preparation not just important, but essential.
Back