Storm‑Sized Surprise: Manila Slows Down for 48 Hours
When Tropical Storm Ma‑On rolled into the Philippines, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rolled out a two‑day pause for government offices and schools. “We’re giving everyone a breather while the skies keep spilling,” the President said. The move covers the entire Metro Manila belt and the neighboring provinces of Laguna, Cavite, Rizal, Bulacan, Zambales and Bataan.
Why the Sit‑Down?
- Rain‑fall so heavy it might as well be a swarm of drenched clouds.
- Winds up to a whopping 110 km/h—talk about a wind‑tunnel test.
- Potential for flooding and landslides as the storm whips through the north.
What the Weather Bureau Says
“The heavy rains pose possible risks to the general public,” stated Press Secretary Trixie Angeles, echoing the State Weather Bureau’s warning: investments in rain‑proof umbrellas and sturdy shoes are now a must. The storm will likely slack as it crosses the country, but it plans a comeback as a typhoon over the South China Sea by Wednesday night.
Remember the School Take‑Back?
Meanwhile, Filipino students are heading back to classrooms for the first time in over two years—a big relief that even the rains can’t dampen.
