Classes, gov't work in Metro Manila, other areas suspended on July 22—Palace

July 22 ------ Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez confirmed that President Marcos has approved the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to suspend work in government offices and classes in various cities and provinces due to the continuous rain brought by "habagat" or southwest monsoon.

Malacañang also issued Memorandum Circular No. 89 for the cancellation of classes and work in government,

The suspension covered all cities in Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Pangasinan, Tarlac and Occidental Mindoro.

While work in government was suspended, agencies with essential functions such as delivery of basic and health services and response to disasters and calamities will continue to render necessary services. "[A]gencies responsible for basic, vital and health services, preparedness and response duties must continue to remain operational to ensure continuity of essential government functions despite the declaration of work suspension," the memorandum signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated. "Non-vital government employees of subject agencies may be engaged under approved alternate work arrangements," it added.

The localized cancellation of classes or work in government offices in other regions may be implemented by their respective local chief executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules and regulations, the memorandum said. However, the suspension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads.

The Palace also suspended classes at all levels and work in government on Monday afternoon, July 21 due to habagat.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), from Monday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon, July 22, the habagat is expected to bring intense to torrential rainfall (100 to 200 millimeters) over Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, and Rizal. Moderate to heavy rains (50 to 100 millimeters) may affect Pangasinan, Tarlac, Laguna, Quezon, and Occidental Mindoro.

Source: mb.com.ph