Work Suspended at House of Representatives Amid Southwest Monsoon
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has suspended work starting 4 p.m. on Monday, July 21, due to the heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon. This move aims to ensure the safety of all personnel amid worsening weather conditions.
House Secretary General Reginald Velasco announced the suspension through an advisory, stating that only essential staff, as identified by deputy secretary generals and the sergeant-at-arms, will continue to work during this period.
“Due to heavy downpour and flooding caused by the Southwest Monsoon, work at the House of Representatives is suspended starting 4:00 p.m. today. Only essential personnel, as determined by their respective Deputy Secretaries General or the Sergeant-at-Arms, shall render service,” Velasco explained.
Government Offices and Classes Also Halted in Several Provinces
Earlier, Malacañang declared the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels starting 1 p.m. Monday in Metro Manila, Cavite, Rizal, Batangas, Laguna, Bulacan, Pampanga, Zambales, and Bataan. The decision was made in response to the persistent heavy rains caused by the southwest monsoon.
However, Malacañang clarified that agencies providing basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other vital operations will continue their functions despite the suspension.
Persistent Rains Due to Tropical Storm Crising and Southwest Monsoon
Several parts of Luzon have been experiencing relentless rains since last Friday. The combination of Tropical Storm Crising and the southwest monsoon intensified the weather disturbances in the region.
Although Tropical Storm Crising left the Philippine area of responsibility on Saturday morning, rains have not ceased in many areas. As of Monday, reports confirmed five fatalities and seven missing persons linked to the combined effects of the storm and monsoon, local officials noted.
The strong southwest monsoon continues to affect daily life, prompting authorities to remain vigilant as they monitor flood-prone areas and provide assistance to affected communities.
For more news and updates on the southwest monsoon, visit Filipinokami.com.
