Only government work and classes in public schools across the country will be suspended in observance of the “National Day of Protest” on September 21, Malacañang announced yesterday.
The Palace has left to the discretion to the private sector whether it would call off their work and classes during the planned protest actions on Thursday.
“It is not a special non-working holiday,” Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said during a Palace news conference.
“However, the acting Executive Secretary will issue a memorandum circular suspending work in government offices both national and local as well as classes in all public schools, state colleges and universities,” he added.
He said certain government agencies shall be required to provide standby emergency assistance near sites of protest actions.
“Regarding private companies, suspension of work in private companies and classes in private schools in affected areas is left to the discretion of their respective heads,” he said.
President Duterte earlier said he would declare September 21, which marks the 45th anniversary of the declaration of martial law by then President Marcos, as a “National Day of Protest.” (Genalyn Kabiling)
