Palace suspends classes, gov't work in NCR, nearby provinces due to 'Opong'
Motorists and pedestrians brave heavy rains and gusty winds while traveling along Rizal Avenue in Taytay, Rizal, on September 22, 2025. (John Louie Abrina | MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
Malacañang has suspended work in government and classes at all levels in several provinces, including Metro Manila, on Friday, Sept. 26 due to the forecasted heavy rainfall Severe Tropical Storm Opong is expected to bring.
President Marcos issued Memorandum Circular No. 102 on Thursday for the suspension of government work and classes upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
The suspension covered all cities in Metro Manila, Biliran, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Masbate, Romblon, and Sorsogon.
Classes at all levels in Aklan, Albay, Antique, Batangas, Bataan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Capiz, Cavite, Catanduanes, Guimaras, Iloilo, Laguna, Leyte, Marinduque, Negros Occidental, Oriental Mindoro, Rizal, and Quezon were also suspended to ensure public safety.
While government work was suspended in several provinces, agencies responsible for basic, vital, and health services, preparedness, and response duties must continue to remain operational to ensure continuity of essential government functions, according to the memorandum.
The circular also noted that non-essential government employees of the subject agencies may be engaged under approved alternative work arrangements, subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
It pointed out that the localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other areas may be implemented by their respective governors, mayors, and local chief executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules, and regulations.
The circular added that the suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), Opong (international name: Bualoi) is expected to make its first landfall over Northern Samar or the northern portion of Eastern Samar early Friday before hitting Sorsogon later in the day.