MANILA — Local government units on Monday suspended classes in their areas because of heavy rain and the risk of flooding as well as a protest by some transport groups pushing for continued implementation of the Public Transport Modernization Program.

The coastal cities of Malabon and Navotas have suspended classes in all levels in public and private schools, citing recommendations by their respective Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices.

Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval and Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco said that high tide in their areas is also expected around 11:22 a.m., which could worsen flooding.

San Jose Del Monte in Bulacan has also declared a suspension of classes in all levels of public and private schools because of a protest by public transport drivers and operators that might make it difficult for students to commute to their schools.

RELATED: DOTr says with 83% consolidation rate, no need to suspend PUV modernization program

Public Utility Vehicle operators and drivers are holding a “Unity Walk” on Monday morning in response to a call by senators to suspend the Public Transport Modernization Program, the new name for the controversial Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program.

The program has been met with protests by other  transport groups have said should not push through because of the cost of franchise consolidation and of getting “modern jeepney” units.

Last week, 22 senators backed a resolution to suspend the program and iron out the "valid and urgent concerns" of various stakeholders such as affected drivers and unions.

READ: Senators seek temporary suspension of PUV modernization program

Senate resolutions, when adopted, express the sense of the chamber but are not binding on the executive branch.