Bacolod and Negros Occidental on High Alert for Tropical Depression
Local government units across Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, have proactively suspended classes for Monday, November 24, 2025, in response to the threat posed by Tropical Depression Verbena. This coordinated action aims to ensure public safety as the weather disturbance moves within the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
Widespread Class Suspensions Announced
The suspension of classes was declared by a significant number of LGUs in the province. The list includes: San Carlos, Toboso, Moises Padilla, E.B. Magalona, Binalbagan, Sipalay City, Silay City, Isabela, Himamaylan City, Victorias City, La Carlota City, Hinigaran, Don Salvador Benedicto, Valladolid, Pontevedra, Calatrava, Murcia, Sagay City, Cadiz City, and Hinobaan. Several of these localities have extended the class suspension until November 25, 2025, reflecting the anticipated impact of the weather system.
Bacolod's Proactive Disaster Response
In Bacolod City, Mayor Greg Gasataya formalized the class suspension through Executive Order No. 73, series of 2025. The order applies to all levels in both public and private schools. This decision was based on the development of a Low Pressure Area and the subsequent Orange Heavy Rainfall Warning raised by PAGASA for the city.
To minimize disruption to education, Mayor Gasataya encouraged schools to implement modular distance learning and assign performance tasks or projects, ensuring that learning competencies are still met despite the suspension.
Leading the city's preparedness efforts, Mayor Gasataya conducted a Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. The meeting, held at the Bacolod City Government Center, was designed to ensure the city is fully prepared for any scenario arising from Tropical Depression Verbena.
With Negros Occidental placed under Signal No. 1 by DOST-PAGASA, Bacolod City is now on Blue Alert. Mayor Gasataya confirmed that all emergency response units are on standby, closely monitoring weather developments, and are ready to be mobilized immediately if needed.
As a preemptive measure, the City Engineer's Office has already deployed teams to clear obstructions from culverts to prevent flooding. The mayor also called on all barangays to initiate their own preparations for a rapid response, urging citizens to remain alert and follow official advisories for their safety.
