Malacañang on Monday ordered the suspension of government work and in-person classes across all levels in public and private schools in Metro Manila and 14 Luzon provinces on Tuesday, August 18, due to continuous heavy rainfall fueled by the Southwest Monsoon, locally known as habagat.
The directive, through Memorandum Circular No. 128 signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, came following recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and heavy rainfall advisories from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
In addition to the National Capital Region, the suspension covers the provinces of Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna and Occidental Mindoro.
Agencies responsible for delivering health and basic services, disaster response, preparedness, and other critical operations are exempt from the order and must maintain their services.
“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,” MC 128 read.
“The localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other areas may be implemented by their respective Local Chief Executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules, and regulations. The suspension of work or adoption of alternative work arrangements in the private sector shall be left to the discretion of management,” it added.