MANILA, Philippines — Several provinces and local governments have declared a state of calamity following widespread flooding and damage caused by more than two weeks of heavy rains.

Among the areas under a state of calamity are Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga and Cavite.

Bulacan placed the entire province under a state of calamity after floods damaged homes, farms, businesses and infrastructure. Pampanga made a similar declaration after hundreds of barangays were affected by flooding.

Other municipalities and cities in Pangasinan, Zambales, Rizal and Batangas have also been affected by severe weather conditions.

A state of calamity allows local governments to quickly use emergency funds for rescue, relief and recovery operations.

It also triggers measures such as a price freeze on basic necessities in affected areas and may allow access to government assistance and emergency loans.

The flooding was brought by the enhanced southwest monsoon, or Habagat, and recent tropical cyclones that affected large parts of Luzon.

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