Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all educational levels in the National Capital Region (NCR) as well as six provinces starting from 3 p.m. on Wednesday. This decision comes in response to the anticipated continuous heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm Maymay, internationally known as Kujira, and the intensified southwest monsoon, locally referred to as habagat.

According to Philippines News Agency, the suspension is mandated under Memorandum Circular No. 121, which was signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto under the President's authority. The areas affected by this directive include Metro Manila and the provinces of Abra, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Benguet, Pangasinan, and Zambales. The memorandum follows recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), which pointed to forecasts predicting persistent heavy rainfall linked to the current weather disturbances.

Despite the suspension, government agencies responsible for essential services such as basic and health services, disaster preparedness, and response are instructed to maintain operations. The circular also grants local chief executives the authority to suspend classes and government work in other regions if deemed necessary, in compliance with existing laws and regulations. Meanwhile, decisions regarding the suspension of work in private companies and offices remain at the discretion of their respective management.