MALACANANG issued Memorandum Circular No. 129 on Tuesday directing government offices and schools in the National Capital Region and 16 other provinces to shift to alternative work and learning arrangements on Wednesday, August 19.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto stated the directive follows a recommendation from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, as continuous heavy rainfall brought by the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat is forecast across wide areas of Luzon and the Mindoro islands. The measure aims to ensure the safety of students and government personnel while maintaining productivity and service continuity.
The circular covers Metro Manila, Abra, Benguet, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Occidental Mindoro, and Oriental Mindoro.
Public and private schools at all levels shall implement alternative learning modes and distance learning measures, unless local chief executives issue different instructions. Work suspensions in private companies are left to the discretion of their respective management, giving employers flexibility based on actual conditions in their specific areas.
Essential services including health care and disaster response operations shall remain fully operational throughout the period to ensure public safety and emergency readiness. Contract of service and job order personnel are guaranteed full payment of their corresponding wages despite the alternative work setup. The Palace emphasized that local government heads retain authority to adjust class schedules or declare suspensions in their respective jurisdictions, responding to on‑the‑ground conditions and rainfall severity.
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