Luzon, Visayas Class Suspensions July 24, 2025
Work and class Suspensions Hit Luzon and Visayas Amidst Inclement Weather
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- Work and class Suspensions Hit Luzon and Visayas Amidst Inclement Weather
MANILA, Philippines – Heavy rains and the enhanced Southwest Monsoon have prompted work and class suspensions across several provinces in Luzon and the Visayas on July 24th. The directive, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, aims to ensure the safety of citizens and the continuity of essential government services.
Affected Areas Under Suspension
Interior and Local Government secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed the widespread suspensions, impacting a meaningful portion of the country. The affected regions include:
Metro Manila
The National Capital Region is included in the suspension.
Ilocos Region
Ilocos Norte
Ilocos Sur
La union
Pangasinan
Cagayan Valley
Cagayan
Isabela
Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)
Abra
Apayao
Benguet
Ifugao
Kalinga
Mountain Province
Central Luzon
bataan
Bulacan
nueva Ecija
pampanga
Tarlac
Zambales
CALABARZON
Cavite
Quezon
Batangas
laguna
Rizal
MIMAROPA
Marinduque
Occidental mindoro
Oriental mindoro
Palawan
Romblon
Bicol Region
Albay
Camarines sur
Catanduanes
Sorsogon
Masbate
Western Visayas
Antique
Iloilo
Essential Services to Remain Operational
Memorandum Circular no. 91,signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin,mandates that agencies responsible for basic,vital,and health services,as well as preparedness and response duties,must continue to operate. This ensures that essential government functions are not disrupted, even amidst the adverse weather conditions.
“We understand the importance of keeping critical services running, especially during times like these,” stated Secretary Remulla. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of everyone, while also ensuring that essential government operations continue without interruption.”
Work Arrangements for Government Employees
Non-vital government personnel in the affected areas are not required to physically report to work. However, the circular clarifies that where practicable and as determined by agency heads, these employees may be placed on alternate work arrangements, adhering to existing laws and regulations. This approach aims to balance safety with the need for continued productivity.
Localized Suspensions and Private Sector Discretion
The memorandum also acknowledges that local chief executives in other regions may implement their own localized cancellations or suspensions of classes and work in government offices, based on their specific assessments of the weather situation.Furthermore, the decision to suspend work or adopt alternative work arrangements in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective management.
Tropical Cyclones Dante and Emong Enhance Monsoon
The inclement weather is attributed to Tropical Cyclones Dante and Emong, which are currently enhancing the Southwest monsoon (Habagat), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). These weather systems are bringing continuous heavy rains to various parts of the country.
Safety Advisory Issued
Considering reports of drowning incidents, Secretary Remulla issued a stern warning, urging the public to exercise extreme caution and avoid swimming in rivers and creeks during this period. “The safety of our citizens is paramount. We implore everyone to stay vigilant and avoid unnecessary risks, especially near bodies of water,” he emphasized.
The government continues to monitor the weather situation closely and will provide updates as necessary. Citizens are advised to stay informed through official channels and heed advisories from local authorities.