GOVERNMENT offices across Metro Manila and 14 nearby provinces have been directed to implement alternative work arrangements on Tuesday, August 18, following continuous heavy rains brought by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat).
The directive was formalized under Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 128, signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto by authority of the President on August 17.
The order applies to the National Capital Region as well as the provinces of Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna, and Occidental Mindoro.
The decision followed recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and heavy rainfall warnings issued by the state weather bureau PAGASA.
Essential government operations will remain uninterrupted despite the advisory.
Agencies responsible for delivering basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other vital public operations are directed to continue full operations.
For education, MC 128 mandates the adoption of alternative learning modes for classes at all levels in both public and private schools across the covered areas, unless local chief executives order otherwise.
Local officials outside the designated areas retain the authority to implement localized suspensions of classes and government work based on prevailing conditions.
Meanwhile, private sector companies have been left to decide whether to suspend work or implement flexible work setups for their employees.
