Half-day break on Oct. 31 in gov’t offices, schools

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has ordered the nationwide suspension of work in all government offices as well as classes at all levels starting at noon of Oct. 31.

In Memorandum Circular 67 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the Palace said the suspension would “provide government employees full opportunity to properly observe traditional All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day activities, allow them to travel to and from different regions in the country, and promote domestic tourism.”

READ: MMDA to suspend all road works to address holiday traffic

But the suspension will not apply to government agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, disaster and calamity preparedness and other vital services.

As for private offices, the Palace left to their respective management the decision of whether or not to send their employees home early on Oct. 31. —Julie M. Aurelio