Widespread Class and Government Work Suspension Declared in Metro Manila and 36 Provinces on July 23 Due to Torrential Rains

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the President has announced the suspension of government work and classes in Metro Manila and 36 other provinces for Wednesday, July 23, following the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) amid heavy rainfall brought on by the southwest monsoon and other weather disturbances.

The announcement, made official through Memorandum Circular No. 90 and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, aims to ensure the safety of citizens and government employees as widespread flooding, road closures, and hazardous weather conditions continue to affect large parts of the country.

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🌧️ The Situation on the Ground

The suspension comes as parts of Luzon and the Visayas have been experiencing torrential rains and flooding, particularly in Metro Manila, where streets such as Araneta Avenue in Quezon City were seen submerged under waist-deep floodwaters as of July 21. The weather disturbances are caused by the Habagat (southwest monsoon), which has intensified due to the interaction with other low-pressure systems currently surrounding the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued multiple weather alerts across several regions, warning of possible landslides, flash floods, and strong winds in low-lying and mountainous areas.

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📋 Provinces Covered by the Suspension

 

According to the memorandum, the suspension applies to all classes (public and private) at all levels and all government offices, except those involved in critical services. The following provinces are covered under the directive:

National Capital Region (Metro Manila)

Pangasinan

Zambales

Tarlac

Bataan

Pampanga

Bulacan

Cavite

Batangas

Rizal

Occidental Mindoro

Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Sur

La Union

Quezon

Oriental Mindoro

Marinduque

Romblon

Masbate

Sorsogon

Albay

Camarines Sur

Catanduanes

Palawan

Antique

Aklan

Capiz

Iloilo

Guimaras

Abra

Mountain Province

Ifugao

Benguet

Nueva Vizcaya

Nueva Ecija

Laguna

Negros Occidental

This widespread coverage reflects the broad impact of the current weather system, which continues to bring dangerous rainfall patterns and flooding from northern Luzon to parts of the Visayas.

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🏛️ Essential Services to Continue

Despite the blanket suspension, government offices involved in life-saving and disaster response efforts will continue operations. These include agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and local government disaster response units.

In a statement, Executive Secretary Bersamin emphasized the need for continued vigilance:

“While public safety remains our priority, essential government operations tasked with emergency response, health services, and disaster coordination must remain fully functional during this period,” he said.

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🏢 Private Sector Guidance

 

The memorandum also noted that the suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective management.

“Private companies are encouraged to assess the situation in their areas and prioritize employee safety,” the circular stated.

Several private firms in Metro Manila and Central Luzon have already announced flexible work arrangements or remote work setups in light of the order.

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💬 Localized Suspensions Still Possible

While the directive covers 37 specific areas, the Palace noted that local government units (LGUs) outside the listed provinces retain the authority to declare localized suspensions of classes or government work as necessary, pursuant to their mandate under existing laws.

This means LGUs in unaffected regions still have the flexibility to respond to sudden weather developments in their respective areas.

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🚨 Preparedness and Public Safety Measures

The NDRRMC, in coordination with PAGASA and other agencies, has been conducting regular monitoring of rainfall, river levels, and landslide-prone zones. The public is urged to:

Follow weather updates from official sources

Avoid unnecessary travel during storm conditions

Secure loose objects and prepare for power outages

Report emergencies via hotline numbers (911 or local disaster offices)

Evacuation centers have been placed on standby in flood-prone areas, with local officials instructed to ensure access to clean water, food supplies, and medical services.

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📢 Public Reactions Mixed but Understanding

On social media, reactions to the announcement ranged from relief to concern.

“At least we’re not being forced to commute through dangerous floods. Thank you for prioritizing safety,” one user tweeted.

“Hope the local barangays are ready for emergencies. This rain hasn’t stopped for days,” another user posted.

Meanwhile, some netizens called for clearer protocols on private sector suspensions, especially for daily wage earners who risk losing income due to work disruptions.

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📅 What Happens Next?

Authorities have not yet announced if the suspension will extend beyond July 23. PAGASA and NDRRMC are expected to provide updates on weather conditions over the coming days.

Citizens are advised to stay tuned to official government announcements and follow LGU advisories for any changes.

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In conclusion, while the weather situation remains volatile, the government’s proactive move to suspend work and classes is seen as a preventive measure to reduce risks and protect lives. With weather systems becoming more unpredictable each year, disaster preparedness continues to be a national priority.

Stay safe, stay dry, and follow updates from Philstar.com for the latest developments.