Duterte returns to Manila despite Taal eruption flight delays

President Duterte arrived in Manila on Monday morning after his plane initially had difficulty taking off from Davao due to zero visibility caused by the Taal Volcano eruption.

Despite the flight difficulties, he proceeded with his scheduled visit to the Philippine Marine Corps in Taguig City.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo confirmed Duterte landed at NAIA as the first aircraft to do so.

Photos showed the President observing the volcanic aftermath from his airplane window.

The President's engagement in San Isidro, Leyte, scheduled for Tuesday, has been rescheduled.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, under the President's authority, suspended classes and government work in Calabarzon, NCR, and Central Luzon, excluding frontline response agencies.

The Palace encouraged the private sector to also suspend work on Monday for employee safety.