Malacañang announced that classes in public schools and work in government agencies within the National Capital Region are suspended effective 7:00 am on Wednesday, August 28 due to the effects of the Southwest Monsoon.
The suspension of work and classes in the private sector is left to the discretion of their respective heads.
As usual, the suspension does not include frontline agencies engaged in emergency services.
This decision follows the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), which cited ongoing and forecast heavy rainfall over Metro Manila.
The NDRRMC’s recommendation emphasized the risk of occasional rains with potential flash floods in the region, prompting the suspension “to prevent any untoward incidents and will ensure the safety of the general public.”
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued a late night advisory on Tuesday, August 27 forecasting heavy to intense rains over Bataan and Occidental Mindoro, and moderate to heavy rains over Metro Manila and several other areas on Wednesday.
PAGASA warned that these conditions could lead to flooding and rain-induced landslides, particularly in areas highly susceptible to such hazards.
The state weather bureau urged the public and relevant disaster risk reduction offices to take necessary precautions to protect life and property during this period of inclement weather.
In response to the adverse weather conditions, the Supreme Court suspended its office hours on Wednesday and announced the suspension of work at the Court of Appeals Manila and Sandiganbayan, with exceptions made for essential frontline services.