MANILA, Philippines — The local government of Manila has declared half-day work and classes for students at all levels in public and private schools in the city on Holy Wednesday, March 27.
According to an order dated March 26, this was to allow citizens of Manila to spend ample time for the observance of Holy Week.
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“To provide Manileños the full opportunity to properly observe the Semana Santa when families gather together for special meals, go to church for Easter vigils and mass, renew and recollect on their faith, spend time with their fellow religious and show their devotion to the Catholic Church, it is proper to give them enough time to prepare for the events leading to the observance of their remembrance of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ,” the order said.
Following the observation of Lent, Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuña-Pangan suspended in-person and online classes in the city from noon onwards.
Government work, except for emergency services, was also suspended.
“Work in all city government offices is also suspended for the same duration. City government offices for emergency response, however, shall remain operational,” it added.
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Meanwhile, private offices will have their own discretion on whether or not to suspend afternoon work.
On Monday, the Malacañang issued an announcement suspending work for all government employees on Holy Wednesday.
(Photo from Manila Public Information Office)