MANILA: Malacañang suspended government work and classes for Thursday at all levels in the Bicol Region due to the continuous rainfall caused by Severe Tropical Storm 'Kristine' (Trami). The Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) made the announcement Wednesday in a statement. The Bicol Region is among the hardest hit areas by Kristine, which has been drenching parts of the country since Monday. 'However, those agencies whose functions involve 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 OES said in a statement. Meanwhile, the suspension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads. The OES added that the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) and other relevant agencies are continuously monitoring the situation in other regi ons and will recommend further suspensions, as needed. Kristine is expected to make landfall Wednesday night over Isabela province. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed government agencies and local government units to be on alert and respond to the needs of affected individuals. Source: Philippines News Agency