Work, classes suspended in NCR, 16 provinces starting 1 p.m. on Aug. 28
At A Glance
- Work in government offices and classes at all levels in public and private schools in NCR and 16 provinces will be suspended starting 1 p.m. Friday.
- The suspension was ordered due to the expected further enhancement of the Southwest Monsoon by a low-pressure area inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
- Essential government agencies will continue operating, while local chief executives may impose additional localized suspensions.
Work in government offices and classes at all levels in public and private schools in the National Capital Region (NCR) and 16 provinces was suspended starting 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, due to the expected further enhancement of the Southwest Monsoon by a low-pressure area that has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
The suspension was ordered under Memorandum Circular No. 132 issued by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
The areas covered are NCR, Abra, Benguet, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Rizal, Oriental Mindoro, and Occidental Mindoro.
Government agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other vital services will continue their operations despite the suspension.
The circular said these agencies must continue rendering the necessary services during the period covered by the suspension.
Local chief executives may also implement localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other areas, pursuant to relevant laws, rules, and regulations.
The suspension of work or adoption of alternative work arrangements in the private sector will be left to management's discretion.
The suspension comes as authorities anticipate further strengthening of the Southwest Monsoon due to the low-pressure area that has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility.