Motorists are caught in standstill traffic along EDSA Munoz due to high flood waters as the typhoon Carina-enhanced habagat batters the capital region. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News

MANILA -- Malacañang on Wednesday suspended work in government offices and classes in all levels in at least three regions due to the onslaught of Typhoon Carina.

"In view of the continuous rainfall brought about by the Southwest Monsoon and Typhoon Carina and to aid in the rescue, recovery, relief and rehabilitation efforts of the government and the private sector, work in government offices and classes at all levels in Regions III, IV-A and the National Capital Region are hereby suspended on 25 July 2024," a statement from the Office of the Executive Secretary read.

"However, those agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services," the statement read.

"The suspension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads."

Hours prior to this suspension, Metro Manila mayors agreed to place the National Capital Region under a state of calamity as thousands fled to evacuation centers amid flooding in different parts of the country.

READ: 'Carina' strengthens into a super typhoon

READ: Metro Manila declares state of calamity due to Typhoon Carina

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said that other local government units have the prerogative to declare a state of calamity in their respective jurisdictions.

Typhoon Carina had strengthened into a super typhoon on Wednesday afternoon, according to state weather bureau PAGASA.

As of 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 24, it was spotted 380 kilometers north of Itbayat, Batanes, packing maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour and up to 230 kph gusts.

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