Marcos suspends govt work, classes in public schools due to 'Florita'

By Catherine S. Valente

(UPDATE) PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has suspended government work and public school classes in all levels in Metro Manila and several other provinces beginning Tuesday afternoon until Wednesday, August 24, due to Severe Tropical Storm Florita.

Upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Press Secretary Rose Beatrix "Trixie" Cruz-Angeles said the President declared the suspension of government work and classes in the National Capital Region (NCR), including the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, Zambales and Bataan starting 1:00 p.m.

"The President has declared a suspension of work and classes in all levels today until tomorrow, for all government offices and public schools in NCR, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, Zambales and Bataan, due to Severe Tropical Storm Florita," Cruz-Angeles said in a statement.

"The heavy rains pose possible risks to the general public based on the recommendations of the Office of Civil Defense," she added.

However, government agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness or response to disaster and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services will continue their operations.

"The recommended suspension will prevent any untoward incidents and will ensure the safety of the general public," the NDRRMC said.

Meanwhile, Cruz-Angeles said suspension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads.

"The same course of action for private schools and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads," she said.