Metro Manila experienced widespread heavy traffic and flooding Tuesday as the southwest monsoon or habagat continued to bring heavy rains and in line with this, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) suspended its expanded unified vehicle volume reduction program or number coding scheme due to the inclement weather.

The continuous downpour led to significant disruption, with reports of knee-deep floods and floating debris in various parts of the metropolis.

Commuters and motorists in Manila were particularly affected by deep floods on major thoroughfares including Roxas Boulevard, P. Ocampo Street, UN Avenue and Kalaw Avenue. Public transportation, such as jeepneys and buses, quickly became fully loaded, leading to longer wait times for passengers.

In Quezon City, trash and debris, including plastics and wood, were seen floating in flooded areas along G. Araneta Avenue, A. Bonifacio Avenue and Quezon Avenue toward E. Rodriguez Avenue, making passage difficult for residents.

Valenzuela City saw some houses near the Tullahan River inundated up to their second floors. Approximately 800 people and their pets evacuated to Valenzuela National High School in Barangay Marulas.

Marikina City also faced severe flooding. The Marikina River’s water level peaked at 18.7 meters around 1 a.m. Tuesday, prompting the raising of the third alarm status and forcing evacuation of residents near the river and in low-lying areas. A. Murcia

Rescuers from the Bureau of Fire Protection reminded residents of the mandatory evacuation.

As of 12:45 a.m., 22,104 residents were in 36 evacuation centers, while vehicles near the river were moved to higher ground on bridges. By 5:23 a.m., the water level had receded to 17.7 meters, further dropping to 17.5 meters by 6 a.m., according to the Marikina Public Information Office.

The MMDA confirmed the suspension of the number coding scheme for Tuesday, July 22, 2025, due to the heavy rains.

“Be careful driving during this rainy season and follow traffic laws for road safety,” the MMDA advised.

Makati City also announced a similar suspension late Monday evening. Earlier, the city government, following a directive from Malacañang, had suspended classes at all levels for both public and private schools.