Classes in Metro Manila suspended on Nov. 16-17

MANILA, Philippines — Classes in Metro Manila will be suspended on Nov. 16 and 17 for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders’ Summit and Related Meetings, the Metro Manila Council announced yesterday.

“Metro Manila mayors unanimously move for the suspension of classes on Nov. 16 and 17 to give way to the ASEAN event,” Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Danilo Lim posted on his Twitter account.

The decision to suspend classes was reached during the 9th Metro Manila Council Meeting yesterday.

Lim said it would be up to Malacañang to suspend work in government offices in Metro Manila.

The 31st ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, chaired by the Philippines, will bring together leaders from Southeast Asia and its dialogue partners – Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, South Korea and the US.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed his attendance at the event.

Trump is expected to tackle trade issues and the North Korean nuclear threat, according to the White House.

About 19,000 policemen will be deployed in Metro Manila and other areas across Luzon, according to Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde, National Capital Region Police Office chief.

Security in Clark in Pampanga will be tightened, as some delegates are expected to enter the country through the Clark Airport.

Several ASEAN activities and meetings will also be held in Clark from Nov. 10 to 14.

Dry runs for the ASEAN summit will be conducted in the coming days in areas where the convoy of delegates will pass through, such as SCTEX, NLEX, EDSA and Roxas Boulevard.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa approved the suspension of the permit to carry firearms from Nov. 1 to 15. – With Perseus Echeminada