CLASSES, GOV’T WORK IN SEVERAL PROVINCES SUSPENDED ON SEPT. 25 DUE TO ‘OPONG’

MALACAÑANG announced the suspension of government work and classes in several provinces on September 25, 2025, Thursday, due to Severe Tropical Storm “Opong,” which is expected to bring heavy rainfall across parts of Luzon and Visayas.

On orders of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Memorandum Circular 101, suspending work in government and classes at all levels upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Counci (NDRRMC)l.

“In view of the forecasted heavy rainfall that will be brought about by Severe Tropical Storm ‘Opong,’ work in government offices and classes at all levels in Sorsogon, Masbate, Northern Samar and Eastern Samar are hereby suspended on  September 25, 2025,” the memorandum stated.

The memorandum further added that “classes at all levels in Quezon, Marinduque, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Samar, and Biliran are also suspended on the same day to ensure public safety.”

MC 101, however, said that agencies responsible for basic, vital, and health services, as well as preparedness and response duties must continue to remain operational to ensure continuity of essential government functions.

“Non-vital government employees of subject agencies may be engaged under approved alternate work arrangements, subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations,” the circular added.

The memorandum said that localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other areas may be implemented by their respective mayors and governors or local chief executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules, and regulations.

“The suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads,” the memo added.