Local government units (LGUs) across Luzon and Visayas have declared class and government work suspensions for Thursday, September 25, 2025, as Severe Tropical Storm Opong continues to bring heavy rains, strong winds, and widespread flooding.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Opong has maintained its strength while moving closer to the Philippine landmass and may intensify further into a typhoon. As of Wednesday evening, Wind Signal No. 2 was raised over parts of the Visayas, while some provinces in Luzon were placed under Signal No. 1. PAGASA warned residents in affected areas of possible gale-force winds, storm surges, and moderate to heavy rainfall that may trigger flash floods and landslides.
Wide Suspensions Announced
Provinces in CALABARZON have taken precautionary measures by issuing province-wide suspensions. In Laguna and Quezon, all levels of classes in both public and private schools are canceled for September 25. Rizal province also announced targeted suspensions, with Taytay shifting to modular distance learning until Saturday, September 27, while Morong suspended face-to-face classes until the same date.
In MIMAROPA, several municipalities in Marinduque, including Boac, Buenavista, Gasan, and Santa Cruz, have declared suspensions. Buenavista and Gasan extended their cancellations until Friday, September 26. Romblon province also followed suit, suspending all classes up to September 26 to allow communities time to prepare for possible flooding.
In Eastern Visayas, Biliran province has suspended all classes at all levels, including government work, citing rising floodwaters and the increasing risk of landslides in mountainous areas.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reminded LGUs to closely monitor Opong’s movement and continue preemptive evacuations in low-lying and landslide-prone areas. The Department of Education (DepEd) also urged schools to prioritize safety, encouraging the use of Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM) to ensure learning continuity where feasible.
Meanwhile, PAGASA forecast that Severe Tropical Storm Opong could strengthen into a typhoon by Thursday as it traverses favorable sea surface temperatures. The storm is expected to enhance the Southwest Monsoon, further bringing rains to parts of Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Residents are advised to remain alert for further announcements on class and work suspensions, as more LGUs are expected to issue advisories in the coming hours.
Authorities stressed that safety should remain the top priority. Communities are urged to stay indoors during heavy rains, avoid crossing swollen rivers, and heed evacuation orders when necessary.