Malacañang has ordered government offices to shift to alternative work arrangements and schools to implement alternative learning modes on Friday in the National Capital Region and 12 provinces in Luzon due to continuous rains brought by the southwest monsoon or Habagat.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto issued Memorandum Circular No. 126 covering Metro Manila and the provinces of Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna, Quezon and Occidental Mindoro.
“Upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and in view of the Heavy Rainfall Warnings issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) relative to the continuous heavy rainfall associated with the Southwest Monsoon, government offices are directed to shift to appropriate alternative work arrangements,” MC 126 read.
The memorandum also directed schools in the affected areas to adopt alternative learning modes unless their respective local chief executives order otherwise.
“Unless otherwise directed by their respective Local Chief Executives, alternative learning modes for classes at all levels in public and private schools shall be implemented in the aforementioned areas,” it added.
Government agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other vital services are exempted from the directive and were ordered to continue operations and provide necessary services.
The memorandum also allows local chief executives in other parts of the country to implement localized cancellations or suspensions of classes and government work in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations.
For the private sector, the suspension of work or adoption of alternative work arrangements will be left to the discretion of management.