By Joann Santiago
MANILA, July 6 (PNA) — Malacanang has ordered the suspension of work in all government offices and classes in all schools in the National Capital Region (NCR) Monday afternoon as rains, brought about by Tropical Storm “Egay” continue to pour.
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said Memorandum Circular (MC) 77 has been issued by authority of President Benigno Aquino III for this purpose.
However, the MC, signed by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. on July 6, 2015, excludes from the work suspension “agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital public services.”
These agencies “shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services,” it said.
“Egay” made a landfall over Isabela, in northern Philippines on Saturday night and is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Thursday.
Earlier, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda called on people from the storm-affected areas to remain alert and calm and be updated on latest weather news.
He said “our national agencies are hard at work, coordinating with provincial and local governments to minimize damages and ensure the smooth flow of relief, rescue, and support operations.”
“As a result of these coordinated efforts, there have so far been no reported casualties,” he added. (PNA)