Malacañang Orders Suspension of Work and Classes in Metro Manila and 29 Provinces Due to Super Typhoon Nando

Malacañang has announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels across Metro Manila and 29 provinces in Luzon and the Visayas in anticipation of severe rainfall from Super Typhoon "Nando" (international name: Ragasa) and the southwest monsoon. This directive is outlined in Memorandum Circular No. 97, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.\n\nThe suspension follows recommendations from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), which cited the forecast of intense rainfall caused by these twin weather disturbances. Included areas span Metro Manila and provinces such as Abra, Antique, Apayao, Bataan, Batanes, Batangas, Benguet, Bulacan, Cagayan, Cavite, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, Kalinga, La Union, Laguna, Mountain Province, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Palawan, Romblon, Rizal, Tarlac, and Zambales.\n\nGovernment agencies responsible for critical, health, disaster preparedness, and emergency response services will continue operations to maintain essential public functions. "Non-vital" employees, however, may be allowed to work under approved alternative arrangements.\n\nLocal government executives are empowered to impose work and class suspensions in areas not covered by the memorandum. Meanwhile, suspensions in private sector offices and companies remain subject to the discretion of their respective management. The Palace emphasized that these measures aim to safeguard citizens and ensure preparedness for the approaching typhoon and adverse weather conditions.