The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced the suspension of classes and government work in several areas on Tuesday, August 26, as bad weather continues to affect large parts of Luzon and the Visayas.
According to the directive, classes in all levels — both public and private — will be suspended. Work in government offices will likewise be halted to ensure the safety of students, employees, and commuters. The suspension covers the following areas:
- Metro Manila
- Aurora
- Quezon
- Rizal
- Laguna
- Camarines Norte
- Camarines Sur
- Albay
- Sorsogon
- Catanduanes
- Masbate
- Northern Samar
- Eastern Samar
- Leyte
- Southern Leyte
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that a low-pressure area (LPA) near the country is bringing widespread rains. In its 5 p.m. advisory on Monday, the weather bureau forecast “scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms” across Metro Manila, Central Luzon (except Aurora), and Calabarzon until Tuesday afternoon.
Pagasa warned that the LPA, combined with the southwest monsoon, could result in localized flooding and landslides, especially in low-lying and mountainous areas. Residents were advised to take precautionary measures and monitor updates from both local government units (LGUs) and national agencies.
While government offices in the listed areas will remain closed, agencies involved in disaster response, health services, and other critical operations will continue working to provide assistance where needed. The private sector, on the other hand, is encouraged to adopt flexible work arrangements depending on the severity of weather conditions in their localities.
The DILG stressed that the suspension aims to safeguard lives as heavy downpours are expected to affect travel and road safety. Commuters are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay alert for announcements regarding possible extension of suspensions should the weather persist.
Meanwhile, Pagasa said it is closely monitoring the LPA for possible development into a tropical depression in the coming days. Should this occur, more rain is expected across a wider area of the country.
Authorities reminded the public to keep emergency kits ready, stay indoors during thunderstorms, and coordinate with barangay disaster risk reduction offices for assistance.
With rainfall expected to continue through Tuesday, local governments are preparing evacuation centers in flood-prone areas to accommodate affected residents if necessary.