Zamboanga City suspends classes due to rains, floods

The flooded area along Veterans Avenue heading toward LTO Sta. Barbara and Southern City Colleges’ main campus in Zamboanga City on Thursday, July 23, 2026. ZCDRRMO photo PAGADIAN CITY – Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso ordered the suspension of classes at all levels in both public and private schools on Thursday due to persistent rains brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat), which caused flooding in parts of the locality. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecast cloudy skies with scattered rain showers, prompting the local government to prioritize public safety. READ: LPA’s trough bringing rains over parts of PH — Pagasa Article continues after this advertisement As of 8 a.m., the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ZCDRRMO) issued an advisory warning motorists and commuters to avoid the junction of Veterans Avenue leading to LTO Sta. Barbara and Southern City Colleges Main Campus due to ankle- to knee-deep floodwaters. ZCDRRMO Chief Elmeir Apolinario told the Inquirer via Messenger that while four-wheel vehicles could still pass, tricycles and single motorcycles risk stalling in submerged sections. “We encourage everyone to use alternate routes whenever possible, drive with extreme caution, and avoid walking or driving through flooded areas unless absolutely necessary,” Apolinario said. Authorities reminded residents to remain vigilant, monitor official advisories, and use these emergency hotlines in case of urgent situations: 911, 955-9601, 990-1171, or mobile numbers 0966-7316242, 0955-0043682, and 0928-8966279. Apolinario emphasized that precautionary measures are necessary as scattered rains could trigger localized flooding or landslides in vulnerable areas./coa Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful.