The Palace announced that government offices in Metro Manila and in a number of other areas are to work remotely on August 10, in anticipation of inclement weather conditions.

“In anticipation of the continued heavy rainfall due to the Southwest Monsoon, and upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, work from home arrangement in government offices shall be implemented,” read Memorandum Circular No. 123.

In addition, alternative learning modes for classes at all levels in both public and private schools are to be implemented in the National Capital Region and other provinces, as listed:

• National Capital Region (NCR)

• Ilocos Sur

• La Union

• Zambales

• Bataan

• Rizal

• Cavite

• Batangas

• Occidental Mindoro

• Benguet

• Pangasinan

• Abra

• Tarlac

• Pampanga

• Oriental Mindoro

• Bulacan

Basic health, disaster preparedness and response, and other such integral service providers are exempt from the directive, however.

“Agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other vital services shall continue their operations and render the necessary services,” the Office of the President said.

Moreover, the Palace has left it to private companies to decide whether to suspend on-site work or adopt alternative work arrangements.