Malacañang on Monday ordered the implementation of alternative work arrangements in government offices and alternative learning modes in schools in Metro Manila and 11 other areas in Luzon due to the prevailing inclement weather.
The directive comes after Malacañang earlier debunked circulating social media posts falsely claiming that it had suspended face-to-face government work and classes due to the heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon or habagat.
Under the memorandum released on August 17, the government offices and classes at all levels in public and private schools in the following areas:
- National Capital Region (NCR)
- Zambales
- Bulacan
- Pampanga
- Tarlac
- Nueva Ecija
- Cavite
- Batangas
- Rizal
- Laguna
- Quezon
- Occidental Mindoro
Meanwhile, public and private schools are directed to implement alternative learning modes for classes at all levels, unless their respective local chief executives issue different directives.
The Palace also clarified that local government units may implement localized cancellation or suspension of classes and work in government offices in other areas, in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations.
“Further thereto, 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 memorandum read.
“Unless otherwise directed by their respective Local Chief Executives, alternative learning modes for classes at all levels in public and private schools shall be implemented in the aforementioned areas,” it added.
The Palace also said that the suspension of work or adoption of alternative work arrangements in the private sector shall be left to the discretion of management.
