Manila, Jan. 2 -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported major gains in forest restoration, water management, and environmental governance in 2025, as the Philippines faced increasingly extreme and unpredictable weather conditions.

Secretary Raphael Lotilla said DENR's initiatives are in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to boost climate resilience to help the country adapt to the new normal of intense rainfall, flooding, and water stress.

In his report, Lotilla noted that even without tropical cyclones, several areas experienced severe flooding.

Metro Manila, including Quezon City, recorded 134.2 millimeters of rain in a single day on Aug. 30, nearly equivalent to a week's rainfall. ...