Due to anticipated continuous heavy rainfall brought by the Habagat, the Philippines’ Southwest Monsoon known for its significant impact, Malacañang issued Memorandum Circular No. 133, mandating alternative work arrangements for government offices across 15 provinces in Luzon this Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
The affected provinces include Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Abra, Benguet, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Apayao, Batanes, Nueva Vizcaya, Zambales, Tarlac, Pampanga, and Bataan.
Concurrently, public and private schools in these areas will implement alternative learning modes and learning continuity measures across all levels, a common precautionary measure adopted by the Philippine government during severe weather events to ensure student safety and educational continuity, unless otherwise directed by their respective local chief executives.
According to Malacañang, this action was taken following a recommendation from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council or NDRRMC, the primary government agency responsible for disaster preparedness and response, citing anticipated heavy rainfall that could lead to widespread flooding and significant traffic disruptions.