Monsoon rains trigger widespread flooding in Philippines

Heavy monsoon rains have pounded the Philippines, causing extensive flooding across the main island, according to reports. Schools and government offices in Manila were closed for the second consecutive day, as the weather bureau issued warnings of further rainfall in western provinces. Floodwaters inundated roads in the tourist town of Puerto Galera, situated south of the capital, rendering them impassable.

The capital region, along with 14 other provinces, saw most cities suspend in-person classes for Tuesday. A week's worth of rain fell in just two hours during Monday afternoon, according to ABS-CBN News. The directive for remote work applied to the capital and 14 other provinces across Luzon. Meteorologists predicted continued heavy rains and potential flooding and landslides in Luzon's western areas, where Manila resides.

Two low-pressure systems, each with a high likelihood of evolving into storms, were nearby and were contributing to the intensifying monsoon rains.