Palace suspends gov't work, classes in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur due to Nando

Malacañang has announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur due to the expected downpour brought by Super Typhoon Nando.

Classes at all levels in Abra, Apayao, Batanes, Benguet, Cagayan, and La Union are also suspended.

"However, agencies responsible for basic, vital and health services, preparedness, and response duties must continue to remain operational to ensure continuity of essential government functions," Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said in Memorandum Circular No. 98.

"Non-vital government employees of subject agencies and all other government employees may be engaged under approved alternate work arrangements, subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations," he added.

Bersamin also said localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other regions may also be implemented by their respective local chief executives, in accordance with relevant laws, rules, and regulations.

Meanwhile, suspension of work in private companies and offices is subject to the discretion of their respective heads.

The Philippine Information Agency also warned the public against an edited and fake version of the previous memorandum, announcing class suspension in Metro Manila.

"Do not be misled by the edited MC No. 97 claiming suspensions in Metro Manila and other areas tomorrow, September 23—the original MC No. 97 only covered suspensions for today, September 22," the agency said.

At 8 p.m., PAGASA said four Luzon areas are under Signal No. 4 as Super Typhoon Nando continues to move away from the Babuyan Islands.

Nando was observed 85 kilometers west northwest of Calayan, Cagayan, carrying maximum sustained winds of 215km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 265 km/h. It was traveling westward at 20 km/h. –NB, GMA Integrated News