Malacañang orders gov't offices, schools to shift to alternative setup on Aug. 20

Malacañang has directed government offices in several areas to implement appropriate alternative work arrangements and ordered public and private schools to adopt alternative learning modes and learning continuity measures on Thursday, August 20, amid the effects of the enhanced Southwest Monsoon or Habagat.

Based on Memorandum Circular No. 131, the directive covers the following areas:

• National Capital Region
• Abra
• Benguet
• Ilocos Norte
• Ilocos Sur
• La Union
• Pangasinan
• Bataan
• Bulacan
• Nueva Ecija
• Pampanga
• Tarlac
• Zambales
• Batangas
• Cavite
• Laguna
• Rizal
• Occidental Mindoro

The directive was issued upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and in anticipation of continued heavy rainfall due to the Habagat, which the Palace said “poses risks of localized flooding and travel hazards.”

Agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness or response, and other vital services were ordered to continue their operations and render necessary services.

Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) workers placed under alternative work arrangements shall also be paid their corresponding wages or salaries in accordance with existing rules and regulations.

Malacañang also left the decision on the suspension of classes in areas not covered by the memorandum circular to local chief executives.

The suspension of work or adoption of alternative work arrangements in the private sector shall be left to the discretion of management.

The circular was signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, by authority of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., on Wednesday, August 19. — MCG, GMA News