Classes in 16 Luzon Provinces Shift to Alternative Mode on Sept. 4 Amid Heavy Rains and Haze

Malacañang has issued a memorandum circular ordering classes in 16 provinces in Luzon to shift to alternative arrangements on Friday, September 4, 2026, due to the anticipated continued heavy rainfall associated with the enhanced Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) and poor air quality in the NCR caused by haze from peatland fires in Indonesia. In Memorandum Circular No. 134, issued early Friday morning, stated that "alternative learning modes and learning continuity measures shall be implemented at all levels in public and private educational institutions in the National Capital Region and the following provinces on September 4, 2026, unless their respective Local Chief Executives direct the cancellation or suspension of classes." The provinces included in the list are: "The measure is in view of the anticipated continued heavy rainfall associated with the enhanced Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) and poor air quality in the NCR caused by haze from severe forest and peatland fires in Kalimantan and Sumatra, Indonesia," the circular stated. — BAP, GMA News