Afternoon classes, government work suspended

MANILA, Philippines (Updated 1:06 p.m.) — Malacañang on Thursday announced the suspension of classes in public schools and government work in Metro Manila starting 1 p.m. due to bad weather.

"The Office of the Executive Secretary announced work suspension in all government offices in NCR starting at 1 p.m. today. The same with classes in public schools in all levels," presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.

Agencies involved in delivery of basic services, preparedness and disaster response and other vital government services, however, will continue their operations.

As for private institutions, Abella said the discretion is with school officials.

Memorandum circular signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea announcing the suspension of classes and government work by 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 27, 2017.  Christina Mendez

Prior to the Palace's announcement, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and House Secretary General Cesar Pareja announced cancelation of work in courts and House of Representatives, respectively. Court work is suspended starting 1 p.m. while work at the House of Representatives is called off by 12 p.m.

Several local government units also called off classes due to the heavy downpour.

The government agencies suspended work and classes to allow students and employees to go home safely.

Tropical Storm Gorio and southwest monsoon are triggering heavy rains over flood-prone Metro Manila and nearby provinces.