By el Amigo
MANILA — The national government is moving to alternative work arrangements in Metro Manila and 13 provinces on Tuesday as persistent rains from the southwest monsoon continue to threaten affected communities.
Malacañang announced the measure under Memorandum Circular No. 128 following recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and heavy rainfall advisories from PAGASA.
Areas covered by the directive are the National Capital Region and Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, Zambales, Bataan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna and Occidental Mindoro.
Public and private schools in these areas are also directed to adopt suitable alternative learning modes for all levels, unless their respective local chief executives provide other instructions.
Government offices tasked with delivering essential services—including health, basic services, disaster preparedness and emergency response—are expected to maintain operations.
Local chief executives retain the authority to suspend classes or government work in other areas affected by the bad weather, in accordance with existing policies.
Meanwhile, private-sector employers will have the discretion to decide whether to suspend work or implement alternative work arrangements in their respective offices.
The move comes as parts of Luzon continue to experience the effects of the southwest monsoon, with authorities closely monitoring rainfall and possible weather-related hazards. elamigo/xf
