MANILA – Malacañang suspended work in government offices and classes at all levels in the entire island of Luzon on Wednesday due to Tropical Storm Kristine.
“In view of the inclement weather brought about by Tropical Storm “Kristine” affecting the whole country, particularly the Island of Luzon, work in government offices and classes at all levels in Luzon are hereby suspended on 23 October 2024,” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said in a statement Tuesday night.
“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,” he added.
Meanwhile, the suspension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their respective heads.
Since Monday, several provinces in the Visayas and Mindanao have experienced the adverse effects of Kristine, the country’s 11th tropical cyclone this year.
Kristine also drenched parts of Bicol on Tuesday as it continues to move closer to the country’s landmass.
As of 11 p.m. Tuesday, Kristine was last located 345 km. east northeast of Daet, Camarines Norte or 475 km. east of Infanta, Quezon, packing maximum sustained winds of 75 km. per hour (kph) near the center and gustiness of up to 90 kph.
It is moving northwestward at 10 kph and is expected to make landfall over Isabela province as a severe tropical storm on Wednesday evening.
Local government units (LGUs) within its path have already been alerted and directed to implement preparatory measures. (PNA)