(UPDATE) Gov't suspends classes, work in three regions due to 'Ruby'

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The government suspended on Monday classes at all levels and work in government offices in three regions, including Metro Manila, due to typhoon Hagupit (local name: Ruby).

Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said "By authority of the President (Benigno Aquino III), classes at all levels and work in government offices have been suspended by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. for today, December 8, 2014, except for those agencies whose work involves the delivery of basic and health services, disaster response, and other vital public services."

For the private sector, Valte said that discretion to suspend work lies with the individual companies and employers.

But she said "We urge employers to consider the circumstances of their employees brought about by the effects of Typhoon Ruby."

Meanwhile, the central bank said that under its guidelines, clearing operations are suspended if work suspension in government offices is announced before 9:00 a.m.

The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) also said that there was no trading and no clearing and settlement at the Securities Clearing Corporation of the Philippines due to the suspension of clearing and settlement operations in the Philippine banking system.

Packing maximum sustained winds of 120 kilometers per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 150 kph, Hagupit is expected to hit Metro Manila later Monday. It is forecast to move west northwest at 10 kph.