The government has suspended work and classes in public schools in Metro Manila and nearby provinces on Tuesday, 22 July 2025, due to heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon.

Apart from Metro Manila, the suspension also covers Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Pangasinan, Tarlac, and Occidental Mindoro.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla made the announcement on Monday, 21 July, upon the recommendation of Cabinet members and the Office of Civil Defense.

Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez confirmed to Palace reporters that the recommendation was approved.

While government work is suspended, essential services — including health, disaster response, and other basic services — will continue uninterrupted.

The DILG also issued a warning to residents in steep areas to remain alert for possible landslides.

The decision to suspend work in private companies is left to the discretion of their respective management.

On Monday, the government had already suspended work and public school classes effective 1 PM.

Meanwhile, the state weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is currently monitoring twin low-pressure areas (LPAs) inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

PAGASA earlier projected that two or three tropical cyclones could develop within or enter the PAR this July.