Negros Occidental and Bacolod City Declare Suspension of Work and Classes Amid Basyang Threat
In response to the impending impact of Tropical Depression Basyang, the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, encompassing Bacolod City, has officially declared a suspension of work and classes for Friday, February 6, 2026. This decisive action follows the issuance of an orange heavy rainfall warning by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), highlighting the severe weather conditions expected across the region.
Weather Forecast and Safety Concerns
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who issued a memorandum on February 5, emphasized that Pagasa forecasts predict stormy weather with gusty winds throughout the day on February 6 for Bacolod City and the broader Negros Occidental area. A significant amount of rainfall is anticipated between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m., driven by prevailing northerly winds as Basyang approaches Negros Island. This weather pattern significantly increases the risk of flooding, road hazards, and other weather-related dangers, prompting the suspension to ensure public safety.
Governor Lacson stated that work in all Provincial Government offices will be suspended to protect employees from potential harm. However, he clarified that offices involved in critical functions must remain operational. These include:
- Emergency response units
- Disaster risk reduction and management teams
- Health and social welfare services
- Maintenance of peace and order
- Other essential services
This measure aims to safeguard the welfare of the public during the adverse weather conditions.
Bacolod City's Response and Educational Adjustments
In Bacolod City, Mayor Greg Gasataya has taken similar precautions by suspending work in government offices and classes at all levels in both public and private schools under Executive Order 5. Mayor Gasataya noted that government offices offering basic, vital, and health services, as well as those with preparedness and response duties, must continue their operations to ensure uninterrupted essential government functions.
Regarding education, the mayor encouraged schools to shift to modular distance learning, performance tasks, and projects. This adjustment is designed to help students meet learning competencies despite the suspension of in-person classes. Additionally, Mayor Gasataya mentioned that the suspension of work in private companies, business establishments, and institutions is left to the discretion of their management and administrators, allowing flexibility based on local conditions.
Widespread Suspensions Across Local Government Units
The suspension measures extend beyond Bacolod City, with several other local government units in Negros Occidental also ordering the suspension of classes from February 5 to 6. Affected areas include:
- Cities: San Carlos, Bago, Himamaylan, Cadiz, Silay, Talisay, La Carlota
- Towns: E.B. Magalona, Pontevedra, Hinigaran, Isabela, La Castellana, Moises Padilla, Cauayan, Pulupandan, Manapla
These coordinated efforts underscore the regional commitment to prioritizing safety as Tropical Depression Basyang poses a significant threat to the area.
As personnel from the Rapid Drainage Response Teams in Bacolod City actively monitor major waterways, the community remains vigilant, preparing for potential flooding and other hazards associated with the tropical depression.
