MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has announced the suspension of classes in Metro Manila and several provinces on Thursday, July 24, 2025, as intense rains brought by the southwest monsoon and two tropical cyclones continue to lash the country.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that the southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat, is being enhanced by Tropical Cyclone Dante in the far north and Tropical Storm Emong near Ilocos Norte. The combined weather systems have resulted in widespread flooding and dangerous weather conditions in various parts of the country.
As a precautionary measure, the Palace ordered the suspension of classes in all levels in the following areas:
Benguet
Tarlac
Pampanga
Bataan
Bulacan
Cavite
Batangas
Occidental Mindoro
Apayao
Kalinga
Mountain Province
Ifugao
Nueva Vizcaya
Nueva Ecija
Rizal
Metro Manila
Laguna
Quezon
Marinduque
Oriental Mindoro
Romblon
Palawan
Cagayan
Camarines Sur
Catanduanes
Albay
Sorsogon
Masbate
Antique
Iloilo
In addition to class suspensions, the Palace also clarified the work arrangements for government employees. While personnel in non-essential government offices are not required to report onsite, agencies are encouraged to implement alternate work arrangements such as remote work, based on operational needs and at the discretion of their respective heads.
“Non-vital government employees of subject agencies and all other government employees in the same areas are not required to physically report to work. However, where practicable and as determined by the respective heads of agencies, the said government employees shall be on alternate work arrangement,” the Palace memo read.
Frontline workers and personnel involved in vital services, including healthcare, disaster response, and public safety, are excluded from the suspension and are expected to continue their duties.
Local government units have also been granted authority to issue additional localized class or work suspensions depending on evolving weather and flooding conditions.
Authorities urge the public to stay informed through official advisories and remain vigilant as rainfall may persist over the next few days. Commuters and residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas are advised to take necessary precautions.