No work in Manila courts during Xi visit on Nov. 20

Work in all Manila courts, including the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals, are suspended on November 20, Tuesday, the first day of Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit.

Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio directed the work cancellation in view of a local executive order by Mayor Joseph Estrada and upon recommendation by the Office of the Court Administrator and the police "in the interest of public order and safety," the SC Public Information Office announced Monday.

Estrada earlier issued Executive Order 41, suspending classes and work in city government offices on Tuesday.

The Chinese leader will make his first state visit to the Philippines from November 20 to 21. Malacañang said the upcoming visit was upon invitation by President Rodrigo Duterte.

"During the state visit, the two leaders [President Duterte and President Xi] will exchange views on areas of mutual concern and chart the course for the future of Philippines-China bilateral relations," presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said earlier. — Nicole-Anne C. Lagrimas/RSJ, GMA News