Classes, gov't work suspended in Metro Manila, 36 provinces due to TD Dante

Classes in all levels and government work in Metro Manila and 36 provinces were suspended on July 23 due to heavy rains from the southwest monsoon, enhanced by Tropical Depression Dante.

Malacañang approved the recommendation through Memorandum Circular No. 90.

A red rainfall warning was hoisted over Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, and Occidental Mindoro.

The list of suspended areas includes Pangasinan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, Nueva Vizcaya, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Laguna, Rizal, Quezon, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan, Masbate, Sorsogon, Albay, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental.

Agencies responsible for essential services must continue operations despite the suspension.

Non-vital government employees and others may be engaged under approved alternate work arrangements.