By GENALYN KABILING
Heavy rains flooded low-lying areas in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, forcing the cancellation of classes, work in government offices and scheduled matches in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Neck-deep flood rendered a portion of Araneta Avenue in Quezon City impassable to all kinds of vehicles.
Flooding was also reported in Barangay Tatalon, Roxas District; R. Papa in Manila; E. Rodriguez Avenue in front of Delos Santos Medical City; and the Cubao tunnel along Aurora Boulevard, Quezon City and other parts of Metro Manila.
As a result, government work and classes in public schools in Metro Manila were suspended by Malacanang following the recommendation of the government’s disaster relief authorities.
“Upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), and in view of the continuing inclement weather brought about Typhoon ‘Henry,’ work in government offices and classes in public schools at all levels in Metro Manila, are hereby suspended effective 1:00 P.M. today, 17 July 17 2018,” the memorandum read.
Exempted from the work suspension are government agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster relief and response, and performance of other vital services. They are expected to continue with their operations and render the necessary services, according to Medialdea.
The suspension of work for private companies, offices and schools, on the other hand, has been left to the discretion of their respective heads.
Meanwhile, the PBA and the NCAA announced the cancellation of matches at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and San Juan Arena, respectively.
Storm “Henry” has left the Philippines but another weather disturbance east of the country will likely develop into tropical depression “Inday”.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) lifted all storm warning signals hoisted over northern Luzon but said Henry will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon or habagat, which is currently bringing monsoon rains over Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, Oriental Mindoro, Occidental Mindoro, Palawan and Western Visayas.
Meanwhile, scattered rain showers and thunderstorms will prevail over the rest of the country.
Residents of these areas, especially those living in low-lying and mountainous areas, were advised to continue monitoring PAGASA updates, coordinate with their local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and take appropriate actions against possible flooding and landslides. (With report from Ellalyn de Vera-Ruiz)
