Metro Manila and Bulacan residents are up for a four-day long weekend after President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. suspended classes in public schools at all levels and work in the government in Metro Manila and Bulacan on Aug. 25, 2023, for the opening ceremonies of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 at the Philippine Arena.

Memorandum Circular No. 27 was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Tuesday, Aug. 15, and was released to the media on Aug. 16.

In his memorandum, Marcos said the suspension was part of the government’s "commitment to wider involvement and participation" in sports promotion and development.

He added that the move was the government’s effort to provide full support and assistance to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in ensuring the safe, orderly, and successful opening ceremonies of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

The President however clarified that government agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services “shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services.”

The President said that the suspension of work for private companies and classes in private schools is left to the discretion of their respective heads.

Aug. 25, which falls on a Friday this year, gave residents of Metro Manila and Bulacan an even longer long weekend. Aug. 28 is a holiday commemorating National Heroes Day.

Local organizers declared this week that they were “95 percent” ready for the hosting chores of what is considered the biggest basketball event in the world.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) President Al Panlilio said that some of the FIBA working staff and personnel have started arriving in time for the event.

He added that they are aiming to break the record of having the largest attendance in a FIBA World Cup competition by hosting Gilas Pilipinas’ opening game against the Dominican Republic at the 55,000-seater Philippine Arena in Bulacan.