Several areas in the country are advised to implement alternative work arrangements and learning modes due to the effects of the heavy rainfall brought by the southwest monsoon.

On Monday, August 17, the Office of the President released a memorandum—in line with the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and PAGASA—ordering the following areas to implement alternative arrangements in the National Capital Region (NCR), the provinces of: Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna, and Occidental Mindoro

“Agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services shall continue their operations and render the necessary services,” the memorandum signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto stated.

Alternative learning modes for classes at all levels in public and private schools shall also be implemented in the said areas, unless directed otherwise by their respective Local Chief Executives. The latter are also allowed to declare the suspension or cancellation of classes and work in government offices.

“The suspension of work or adoption of alternative work arrangements in the private sector shall be left to the discretion of management,” the memorandum stated.

As of 5:00 PM on Monday, a red rainfall warning was issued in Bataan, portions of Zambales, Pampanga, Bulacan and Metro Manila.

Meanwhile, an orange rainfall warning was raised in portions of Zambales, Pampanga, Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite and Batangas.