MANILA, Philippines—Malacañang ordered the suspension of classes up to college level and work in government in Metro Manila and in nine nearby provinces on Tuesday.
In a memorandum circular issued after midnight, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said the suspension order was based on the recommendation of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
Ochoa cited the “continuing inclement weather brought about by southwest monsoon (habagat)” in issuing the order to close government offices and schools up to college level in Metro Manila, and the provinces of Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite, and Rizal.
“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,” he said.
