Palace suspends work, classes because of ‘Gorio’

A Sampaloc tree falls on a car along Sct. Gandia corner Sct. Tobias, Quezon City, due to strong winds and heavy rains brought about by Tropical Storm “Gorio.” INQUIRER PHOTO /
NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

Malacañang on Thursday ordered the suspension of all work in government in Metro Manila following  continuous rains that caused floodings brought about by Tropical Storm “Gorio.”

Palace ordered the work suspension around 1 p.m. based on the recommendation of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) due to heavy rains since Wednesday that inundated most of metro roads.

Classes in public schools at all levels were also suspended due to inclement weather.

READ: ‘Gorio’ getting stronger; Pagasa warns of flooding, landslides

“However, those agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness or response to disasters and calamities, and /or the performance of other vital services, shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services,” Malacañang’s Memorandum Circular No. 21 said.

Meanwhile, the memo said the suspension of work for private companies, offices and schools is left to the discretion of their respective head.

The House of Representatives also suspended work at 12 noon, House Secretary General Cesar Pareja said to give its personnel more time to travel back home before situations get worse.

Earlier on Wednesday, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno also authorized the early dismissal of employees of the Supreme Court.

Work in all courts in the entire National Capital Region, meanwhile, was also suspended starting 1 p.m., while the courts’ executive judge in other affected areas may exercise discretion.

The southwest monsoon, which is being enhanced by Tropical Storm “Gorio,” has been dumping moderate to heavy rain in Metro Manila and other places in Luzon and the Visayas since Monday. JPV/rga