Manila: Malaca±ang has issued a directive ordering a switch to alternative work arrangements in government offices and adaptive learning modes for both public and private schools across Metro Manila and 12 provinces due to ongoing heavy rains linked to the southwest monsoon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 126, authorized by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on behalf of the President, encompasses Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Laguna, Quezon, and Occidental Mindoro. This decision follows the recommendation from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, considering heavy rainfall warnings issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

Government agencies tasked with delivering basic and health services, along with those responsible for disaster and calamity preparedness or response, are instructed to maintain their operations despite the memorandum. Furthermore, local chief executives retain the authority to implement localized cancellations or suspensions of classes and government office work in areas not included in MC No. 126.

The memorandum allows the private sector to decide independently on suspending work or adopting alternative work arrangements, dependent on the discretion of their respective leaders. MC No. 126 is effective immediately, reflecting the urgency of the situation.