Gasataya calls out disinformation on suspension of classes
Published Jul 21, 2025 09:12 pm
BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Greg Gasataya has called out those behind the disinformation on social media regarding announcements on weather-related suspension of classes in this highly urbanized city.
In a press briefing on Monday, Gasataya said there were those spreading wrong information that the city government announced classes had been suspended on Monday but no such announcement came from him or the City Mayor’s Office.
“I already asked the City Legal Office to coordinate with the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate this matter. It creates chaos and anxiety for the parents and the children. We appeal to everyone not to do this,” he said.
Gasataya said the public or the Bacolodnons can check his personal Facebook page “Greg Gasataya” for announcements on his activities as the city mayor.
“We also send information to media outlets,” he added.
On Monday morning, the city government’s official Facebook page “Bacolod Stronger Together” issued a disclaimer about the fake announcement of suspension of classes.
A Facebook post, using publicity material similar to the announcement of the suspension of classes in the city on July 17 and 18, circulated among groups and pages.
“The city has not issued any suspension of classes today, July 21, 2025. The latest 5 a.m. update from PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration) does not warrant a suspension based on existing Department of Education guidelines. However, parents or guardians have the discretion to send their students to school or not for their welfare or safety,” the disclaimer said.
Meanwhile, Gasataya hopes that the government will extend greater support to this city, particularly in addressing persistent flooding issues.
Gasataya emphasized the urgent need for assistance in implementing key environmental programs and infrastructure projects.
“This is where we need help the most,” he said, pointing to recent floods caused by clogged drainage systems.
One major concern is the unutilized diversion channel, which remains inoperative due to the lack of critical components such as a pump gate and a floodgate.
“Without proper engineering measures, the facility cannot function as intended,” the mayor stressed.
He is pushing for the inclusion of these components in the national budget, ideally early next year if not this year.
Initially, P300 million was earmarked under the 2025 General Appropriations Act for the construction of floodgates along the Mandalagan, Lupit, and Magsungay Rivers – at P100 million each.
However, that allocation, secured under then-Mayor and now Rep. Albee Benitez, was unexpectedly removed earlier this year.
Benitez has since appealed directly to Marcos to reinstate the funding and requested an increase to cover all five major rivers here, including Banago and Sum-ag. (With PNA)