Palace suspends classes, gov’t work in NCR, nearby provinces

Malacañang has announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels in the National Capital Region and nearby provinces on Friday in anticipation of the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Opong.

Memorandum Circular No 102 states that government work and classes in the following provinces are also suspended on September 26: Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Masbate, Romblon and Sorsogon.

Further, classes at all levels in Aklan, Albay, Antique, Batangas, Bataan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Capiz, Cavite, Catanduanes, Guimaras, Iloilo, Laguna, Leyte, Marinduque, Negros Occidental, Oriental Mindoro, Rizal and Quezon are also suspended to ensure public safety.

However, agencies responsible for basic, vital and health services, preparedness and response duties should continue to remain operational to ensure continuity of essential government functions. 

Meanwhile, non-vital government employees of subject agencies may be engaged under approved alternate work arrangements, subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations.

The localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other areas may be implemented by their respective Local Chief Executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules and regulations.

The suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News