Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Malacañan suspended work in all government offices and classes at all levels in public schools in Metro Manila Friday because of bad weather due to Typhoon Butchoy.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea signed Memorandum Circular No. 2 which ordered the suspension effective 1 p.m., July 8.
The suspension was recommended by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
The suspension order, however, 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 shall continue with their operations and render the necessary services.”
The suspension of work in private companies, offices and schools is left to the discretion of their respective heads.
The state weather bureau said the typhoon weakened around noon, with maximum winds down to 165 kph and gusts of 200 kph. It was forecast to move northwest toward China at 13 kph.
The typhoon enhanced the southwest monsoon and dumped heavy rains over the northwestern part of the country, causing floods in Zambales and Bataan.
PAGASA also warned of possible flash floods and landslides in the two provinces as well as in Pangasinan, Mindoro and Northern Palawan.
