MANILA: Malacañang on Wednesday announced the suspension of work in government offices and classes at all levels in Luzon on Thursday due to expected heavy rains from Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami).
The Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) said work in government and classes in schools are ordered suspended on Thursday following the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
The NDRRMC made the recommendation, because of the ‘forecasted continuous heavy rainfall due to Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, and to aid in the rescue and relief operations of the government.’
The OES initially announced that only work in government offices and classes in Bicol region are suspended on Thursday.
In its latest statement, the OES said localized cancellation or suspension of classes or work in government offices in other areas may be implemented by their respective local chief executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules and regulations.
‘The su
spension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads,’ it said.
‘Agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services are hereby directed to continue their operations and render the necessary services,’ the OES added.
Kristine maintains its strength and is nearing the coastal waters of Isabela, according to 8 p.m. weather bulletin of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
PAGASA said the typhoon is forecast to make landfall over Isabela by Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.
No quadcom probe
The House quad committee also canceled its hearing set on Thursday to allow the panel members to focus on providing relief and assistance to their respective districts affected by the storm.
‘Many of our fellow Filipinos are dealing with devastating loss and damage to their homes, livelihoods, and comm
unities. As representatives of the people, we have a duty to be on the ground and lend every possible support,’ Barbers said in a statement on Thursday.
‘The national government, local government units, the private sector, and civic organizations must all come together in a coordinated effort to help our kababayans (countrymen) rebuild.’
He urged fellow lawmakers to remain engaged with their local communities and be at the forefront of relief operations.
‘Our duty extends beyond legislation – we are here to serve, especially in times of crisis. Let us focus all our attention on providing immediate aid to those who need it the most,’ he said.
‘Our hearts go out to every Filipino family affected by this disaster. We stand with you in this difficult time, and rest assured that we will do everything in our capacity to assist in the recovery process.’
The quadcom will announce a new schedule for the hearing once the situation stabilizes and the relief operations are well underway, Barbers said. (With Zaldy De
Layola/PNA)
Source: Philippines News Agency
