Benguet suspends classes as monsoon rains threaten communities

BAGUIO CITY — A string of municipalities across Benguet province ordered the suspension of classes Tuesday as persistent monsoon rains continued their assault on the vegetable-producing region throughout August. The agricultural town of Atok suspended all face-to-face instruction across preschool through senior high school levels in both public and private institutions.

Local officials cited safety concerns as the primary reason for the decision, with heavy rainfall creating dangerous conditions on provincial roads and heightening the risk of flooding and landslide incidents. Ten municipalities have implemented the class suspensions as precautionary measures to protect students and school personnel.

The extended monsoon system has affected Benguet province for most of the month, with meteorologists predicting continued wet conditions in the coming days. Provincial authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and prepared for potential emergency situations as rainfall persists.

School administrators indicated that alternative learning arrangements would be coordinated with families affected by the suspension. The province has not specified when face-to-face classes would resume pending improvement in weather conditions and road safety assessments.