Malacañang on Tuesday announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels in Metro Manila due to continuous heavy rainfall brought about the southwest monsoon.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 90, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin ordered the suspension following the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), citing the need to ensure public safety amid persistent rains and potential flooding.

Aside from Metro Manila, government work and classes at all levels were also suspended in several regions across Luzon and the Visayas.

In Region I, Ilocos Region, the affected provinces include Pangasinan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union.

In Region II, Cagayan Valley, the suspension applies specifically to the province of Nueva Vizcaya. Meanwhile, in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), the provinces of Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, and Benguet are also covered.

In Region III, Central Luzon, the suspension includes Tarlac, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, and Nueva Ecija.

The entire Region IV-A, CALABARZON, is also covered, including the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon.

Likewise, the suspension applies to the entire Region IV-B, MIMAROPA, covering Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan.

In Region V, Bicol Region, the provinces of Masbate, Sorsogon, Albay, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes are included.

In the Visayas, Region VI, Western Visayas is partially affected, with the suspension covering the provinces of Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo, and Guimaras.

Government agencies involved in delivering basic, vital, health, and disaster response services are mandated to remain fully operational to ensure the continuity of essential government functions. Non-critical personnel may adopt alternate work arrangements in accordance with existing laws and regulations.

Local chief executives in other regions not listed in the memorandum may declare suspension of work or classes in their respective jurisdictions, depending on local conditions.

Meanwhile, work in private companies and offices will be at the discretion of their respective management.

The order takes immediate effect, as the government continues to monitor weather developments and coordinate necessary responses. | PND