Gov’t work, classes in Metro Manila, Bulacan suspended Aug. 25

FILE: Facade of the Malacañang Palace as seen from Pasig River. (Photo by Architect Jorge Ramos (d. 2015) for the underlying copyrighted work (Malacañang Palace). Image is by Official Gazette of the Philippines, originally uploaded on Commons by User:P-JR – Commons:File:Malacañang Palace (Cropped).jpg, Public Domain)

MANILA – Malacañang has ordered the suspension of work in government offices and classes in public schools at all levels in Metro Manila and Bulacan province on Aug. 25 to give way for the opening ceremonies of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

Memorandum Circular (MC) 27, inked by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by the authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., declared the work and class suspension to ensure the “safe, orderly, and successful” opening ceremonies of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

Government 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,” according to MC 27.

Suspension of work for private companies and classes in private schools is left to the discretion of their respective heads.

The memorandum circular was issued as part of the government’s effort to provide full support and assistance to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) which is tasked to lead the comprehensive planning for FIBA World Cup hosting.

Bersamin said the suspension is also part of the government’s commitment towards “wider involvement and participation in sports promotion and development.”