With Far Eastern University (FEU)’s graduation rites appearing to be pushing through despite heavy rainfall brought by the southwest monsoon, graduands expressed their concerns over safety and possible postponement of the 2025 Commencement Exercises scheduled at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City from July 22 to 24. 

Currently, DOST-PAGASA has placed Metro Manila under the red rainfall warning with threats of serious flooding. 

In an online interview with FEU Advocate, BS Accountancy graduating student Ziehl Lopez shared that her parents are currently travelling to Manila for her graduation despite the chest-level flood in Valenzuela. 

“Pina-u-turn sila kanina lang kasi (They were asked to u-turn because) Valenzuela is no longer passable… I'm very worried [about] their situation, especially hindi ko alam if may passable roads in Meycauyan exit,” she shared. 

Additionally, Lopez calls for the graduation rites to be postponed due to the possible danger brought by the weather, knowing that some families would not want to miss the ceremony despite the heavy rain. 

“Marami magmamapilit pumunta kahit hindi kaya and it’s dangerous, life-threatening. My priority is the safety of my family but if safety precautions were prioritized una pa lang, sana hindi nagmamapilit parents ko through the rain,” the graduand said. 

Face-to-face classes for both public and private schools in Manila and Pasay City are now suspended due to the inclement weather. 

In addition, both northbound and southbound lanes of Taft Avenue from United Nations to Nakpil St. and some areas in the North Luzon Expressway are now closed due to habagat. 

Other students have also posted their concerns over transportation, requests for rescheduling, and safety reasons in the unofficial Facebook group of Tamaraws, One Piyu Community. 

Moreover, according to a personal Facebook post of FEU Central Student Organization (FEUCSO) President Raezon Gonzales, FEUCSO is set to send a petition to the University offices requesting the postponement of the graduation rites specifically for the sake of individuals who have to travel. 

As of writing, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has published a reported list of flooded roads in the Metro including Manila, Valenzuela, Caloocan, and Quezon City. 

In case of emergency, the Philippine Red Cross may be reached via emergency hotline 143 or (02) 8527-8385 to 95 and (02) 882-4151 to 77 for MMDA. 

- Julliane Nicole B. Labinghisa

(Photo by Thea Danielle Morin/FEU Advocate)