As monsoon rains once again flood streets across Metro Manila and prompt class suspensions, Malacañang said the decision to suspend classes will remain with the local government units.

This comes as Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said he would seek authority to declare class suspensions earlier during typhoons, citing his experience as a former governor handling weather-related emergencies.

“As of now, the President has not given an official response to Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s suggestion. This will be studied if it will benefit the majority,” said Undersecretary Claire Castro during a media briefing Thursday in Malacañang.

“The President will study it and give a response. But our current system is that the leadership of the LGUs are the ones who give orders if there is a class suspension, which will remain for now,” she said.

Castro emphasized that LGUs should decide quickly whether or not to suspend classes during continuous rains to avoid forcing students to have to brave flooded streets.

Meanwhile, Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon said he exercises caution when announcing class suspensions, citing the impact of lost school days on the students’ education. Biazon said he does not suspend classes based on public pressure on social media.