MANILA, Aug. 22 -- Following an order from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., rides at the Metro Rail Transit 3 and both lines of the Light Rail Transit are free on Friday, starting noon, the Department of Transportation said.

It follows the suspension of classes in several areas due to the anticipated severe weather, resulting in heavy rainfall and widespread flooding across Metro Manila.

The DOTr encouraged the public, particularly students and workers who may be stranded, to take advantage of the free train services.

As of 1:07 p.m., the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported that flooding in some areas has subsided, but several roads remain impassable, especially for light vehicles.

Cleared areas (flood subsided...