Masbate Towns Suspend Classes Due to Tropical Depression Kiyapo

Classes in several towns in Masbate province were suspended on Thursday due to heavy rains brought by Tropical Depression Kiyapo. In Dimasalang town, Mayor Michael Demph Naga ordered the suspension of classes at all levels in public and private schools to safeguard students and teaching personnel. He also reminded residents in low-lying and flood- and landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant and monitor weather advisories. In Aroroy town, Mayor Arvin Virtucio also suspended classes due to heavy rains. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) had warned early Thursday that heavy rains were affecting the provinces of Sorsogon, Masbate, Catanduanes, Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, and Romblon due to the trough of "Kiyapo." Such class suspensions are common in the Philippines during the rainy season, which often brings tropical depressions and monsoons, particularly impacting low-lying areas and those with vulnerable infrastructure.