MANILA, Philippines — July 23, 2025 — Government offices and classes at all levels have been suspended in several regions across the Philippines today, Wednesday, July 23, as the southwest monsoon (habagat) continues to bring heavy rains and possible flooding.
The suspension covers Metro Manila and numerous provinces in Luzon, Visayas, and parts of MIMAROPA and Bicol, following persistent torrential downpours that have triggered flood warnings and landslide threats. The decision was made to ensure the safety of students, government employees, and the general public.
As of July 22 at 11:00 a.m., the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that three low-pressure areas (LPAs)—two inside and one outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility—are being closely monitored, with all having a medium to high probability of developing into tropical cyclones.
A red rainfall warning, the highest level of alert, has been raised over Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, and Occidental Mindoro. This indicates the possibility of intense flooding and landslides in low-lying and mountainous areas.
The Department of Education (DepEd) emphasized that it will continue to coordinate with PAGASA and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) for real-time updates on the weather and class suspensions.
In a public advisory, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) confirmed that work in government offices and classes in all levels is suspended in the affected areas. However, agencies providing essential services—including healthcare, rescue, and emergency response—will continue operations. Non-critical staff may adopt alternative work arrangements if approved.
Private businesses are advised to make independent decisions regarding operations based on the safety of their employees.
The following areas have confirmed suspensions for July 23:
- Entire National Capital Region
- Region I: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan
- Region III: Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales
- Region IV-A: Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Batangas, Quezon
- Region IV-B: Marinduque, Romblon, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan
- Region V: Camarines Sur, Albay, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Masbate
- Region VI: Antique, Negros Occidental, Guimaras
- CAR: Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Nueva Vizcaya
Residents are advised to stay updated with local government announcements and take necessary precautions against flash floods and landslides.