MANILA – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced on Tuesday the termination of the southwest monsoon or “habagat” season, signaling the country’s transition to the northeast monsoon or “amihan” season.

PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando said a gradual shift in the country’s weather pattern has been observed due to the strengthening of the high-pressure system over East Asia and the southward migration of the intertropical convergence zone.

The development also marks the end of the rainy season in the western sections of Luzon and the Visayas.

“The country is now transitioning to the northeast monsoon season, which will be observed and declared in the coming weeks,” Servando said.

Last year, PAGASA declared the onset of the “amihan” season—which typically brings cooler temperatures across the country—on November 19. (PNA)