Malacañang suspended government work and classes in all levels on Tuesday, July 22, in Metro Manila and 10 other provinces due to persistent rains brought by the southwest monsoon or habagat.
The suspension covers Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Pangasinan, Tarlac, and Occidental Mindoro upon the recommendation of the Office of the Civil Defense.
In a message to reporters, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez confirmed President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has given the green light to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to make the announcement.
“Yes, Secretary Jonvic as SILG is authorized to make the announcement on behalf of the Cabinet and the Palace,” Gomez said.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier broke the news through the agency’s social media account.
In a separate interview, Remulla said he texted the president to ask permission to make the necessary announcement on the suspension of work and classes.
Heavy monsoon rains have continued to affect large parts of Luzon since the weekend, prompting flooding and class disruptions across several regions.
Local government units may implement additional safety measures depending on weather conditions in their areas, the DILG said.
Earlier on Monday, the Palace also ordered the suspension of government work and classes in all levels starting 1 p.m. in Metro Manila and nine surrounding provinces due to habagat.
Memorandum Circular No. 88, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by authority of President Marcos covered Cavite, Rizal, Batangas, Laguna, Bulacan, Pampanga, Zambales, and Bataan.
However, according to the announcement, agencies involved in delivering basic health services, disaster response, and other vital functions are directed to continue operations and provide necessary services.
The directive leaves the suspension of work for private sector offices to the discretion of their respective heads, the circular stated.
The order comes as the country braces for worsening weather conditions due to intensified monsoon rains enhanced by the recent severe tropical storm ‘Crising.’
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated. Originally posted with the headline “‘Habagat’ forces gov’t work, class suspensions in Metro Manila, 9 provinces.”
