MANILA, Philippines — Due to persistent heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon or habagat, Malacañang has ordered the suspension of classes at all levels and government work in Metro Manila and 36 provinces on Wednesday, July 23.
The announcement was made through Memorandum Circular No. 90, following the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to ensure public safety amid flooding and hazardous weather conditions.
Areas Affected by the Suspension:
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Metro Manila
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Ilocos Region: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan
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Cordillera Administrative Region: Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province
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Cagayan Valley: Nueva Vizcaya
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Central Luzon: Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales
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CALABARZON: Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal
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MIMAROPA: Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon
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Bicol Region: Albay, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, Sorsogon
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Western Visayas: Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental
The Palace clarified that agencies involved in essential services—such as healthcare, disaster response, and other critical operations—must continue to operate to ensure the continuity of government functions.
“Agencies responsible for the delivery of basic, health, and vital services shall remain operational despite the suspension,” the memorandum stated.
Other government offices may adopt alternative work arrangements as approved by their respective agencies, provided these are in accordance with existing rules and regulations.
Meanwhile, local government units (LGUs) in other regions are authorized to implement localized suspensions depending on their respective weather conditions and disaster risk assessments.
As the monsoon rains continue to affect wide areas, the public is advised to stay updated through official channels and take necessary precautions against flooding, landslides, and other weather-related hazards.
