Work suspension in private sector is the 'call of the employers', says Lacierda

Suspension of work in private sector offices and workplaces is “the call of the employers”, presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said Tuesday through his Twitter account in response to queries from the general public.   Lacierda was tweeting until the wee early morning hours of Tuesday and issued the clarification about work suspension in the private sector shortly after Malacañang issued its memorandum suspending work in government offices and colleges in Metro Manila and nine neighboring provinces.   "But agencies dealing w/ basic health services, preparedness/response 2 calamities, n performance of vital public services, have work," Lacierda said. Here is the complete text of the Palace directive suspending work in government offices and colleges:

  Upon the recommendation of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and in view of the continuing inclement weather brought about by southwest monsoon (habagat), work in government offices and classes in college level are hereby suspended today, 07 August 2012.   However, those agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital public services shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services.   This Circular shall take effect immediately.    Manila, 07 August 2012. — ELR, GMA News