President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. has ordered the suspension of classes and work on government offices in the National Capital Region on Monday, July 24 due to inclement weather brought by Tropical Storm "Egay" and to lessen the scope of those that will be affected by the scheduled transport strike.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Memorandum Circular No. 25, by the authority of the President, on July 21, Friday.
"In view of the forecasted inclement weather brought about by Typhoon' Egay' and the scheduled seventy-two (72)-hour transport strike in Metro Manila, work in government offices and classes in public schools at all levels in the National Capital Region are hereby suspended on 24 July 2023," the memorandum read.
The order also coincides with the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Marcos.
The President, however, said that government agencies that are involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services.
The suspension of work for private companies and classes in private schools is left to the discretion of their respective heads, he added.
Earlier today, the state weather bureau PAGASA reported that 'Egay' had strengthened into a tropical storm as it moved westward over the Philippine Sea.
It is expected to intensify into a severe tropical storm within the next 24 hours.
Meanwhile, transport group MANIBELA announced it would conduct a three-day nationwide transport strike from July 24 to 26, but 12 other transport groups oppose the idea.
