DepEd suspends NCR classes Friday due to heavy rains

Anticipating heavy rains brought by tropical storm "Falcon" (Meari) on Friday, the Department of Education ordered Thursday night the suspension of classes in the elementary and high school levels in Metro Manila. DepEd Metro Manila head Elena Ruiz said the decision to suspend classes was reached after consulting with the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). "Tinanong namin sa kanila ang estimated water volume ng rainfall in the next five hours. Heavy ang magiging downpour, kasama na rin ang nag-overflow ang river (kaya) pasyahan namin ideklara walang klase sa buong NCR sa lahat ng antas," Ruiz said in an interview on dzBB radio. (We asked PAGASA about the estimated water volume in the next five hours. PAGASA expects heavy rainfall. This and the possible overflow of some rivers prompted us to declare the suspension of classes in Metro Manila on Friday.) She said this includes both private and public schools. The DepEd has jurisdiction over the preschool, elementary and high school levels.

The department also suspended classes from preschool to high school in Cavite City and Antipolo. DepEd Calabarzon regional director Lorna Dino said reports of floods in several areas in Cavite City prompted her to suspend classes there. She also said the decision to call off classes in Antipolo was made in consultation with that city’s local officials. Earlier, Marikina and Cainta cities also suspended classes in all levels Friday . — KBK/VS, GMA News