Alternative work setup, learning modes set in NCR, 17 other areas today

MANILA, Philippines, August 19 ------ Government offices in Metro Manila and 17 areas will adopt alternative work arrangements today as the country continues to experience rains from the southwest monsoon or habagat, Malacañang.

The Palace said the measure is provided under Memorandum Circular No. 129, signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, which was shared on the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Facebook page.

The directive covers the following areas:

- National Capital Region

- Abra

- Benguet

- Ilocos Sur

- La Union

- Pangasinan

- Bataan

- Bulacan

- Nueva Ecija

- Pampanga

- Tarlac

- Zambales

Batangas

- Cavite

- Laguna

- Rizal

- Occidental Mindoro

- Oriental Mindoro

Malacañang said public and private schools in the affected areas will also implement alternative learning modes and learning continuity measures at all levels, unless otherwise directed by their respective local chief executives. Agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other vital services will continue to operate and provide necessary services, it added.

For the private sector, companies will decide whether to suspend work or implement alternative work arrangements. The announcement came as the country continued to be drenched by the southwest monsoon, which triggered heavy rains and flooding in parts of Luzon, including Metro Manila.

In Metro Manila, 201.7 millimeters of rain fell within five hours on Monday, overwhelming flood control structures and causing widespread flooding. As of 2 p.m. on Tuesday, state weather bureau PAGASA said the low pressure area east of Northern Luzon had developed into Tropical Depression Neneng.

Source: philstar.com