As the Southwest Monsoon continues to bring inclement weather in several parts of the country.
Through Memorandum Circular No. 129, Malacañan Palace announced the shift to alternative arrangements for classes at all levels in public and private schools (alternative modalities such as online, modular, learning continuity measures) and work in government offices in the following areas on Wednesday, August 19.
- National Capital Region
- Abra
- Benguet
- Ilocos Sur
- La Union
- Pangasinan
- Bataan
- Bulacan
- Nueva Ecija
- Pampanga
- Tarlac
- Zambales
- Batangas
- Cavite
- Laguna
- Rizal
- Occidental Mindoro
- Oriental Mindoro
For contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) workers who are placed under alternative work arrangements, they shall be paid the corresponding wages or salaries, subject to applicable rules and regulations.
The announcement comes as the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) recommended the move in anticipation of continued heavy rainfall associated with the enhanced Southwest Monsoon (Habagat).
Similar to how it has been in the past days and weeks, the rain poses risks of localized flooding and travel hazards.
However, agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and the performance of other vital services are told to continue their operations and render the necessary services.
For other areas not covered by the memorandum, localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices may be implemented by their respective Local Chief Executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules, and regulations.
For work in the private sector, suspension should be left to the discretion of their respective managements.
Meanwhile, the Low Pressure Area previously being monitored by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has intensified into a Topical Depression and is now called Neneng.
In the forecast map of the state weather bureau, the cyclone is not expected to go near the Philippine landmass, although it remains well within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
