Recto: Memo declaring work suspension on Dec. 26, 29 fake
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on Thursday disowned a memorandum circular that announced the suspension of work in all government offices nationwide on Dec. 26 and Dec. 29.
“It’s fake,” Recto said in a Viber message to reporters, referring to the supposed Memorandum No. 47 from the Office of the President that was being spread online.
The fake memorandum dated Dec. 10 and bearing Recto’s alleged signature announced that work was being suspended to allow government employees to spend more time with their families during the holiday season.
Family time
“This decision recognizes the importance of family and personal well-being, especially during one of the most cherished times of the year. Providing this extended break aims to promote work-life balance and support the emotional and social wellness of public servants,” a portion of it reads.
“However, agencies whose functions involve the delivery of essential and emergency services, or those critical to national interest, shall continue operations and render necessary services. The suspension of work in private companies is left to the discretion of their respective employers,” it added.
So far, the remaining holidays for the year are Dec. 25, Christmas Day, which is a regular holiday, along with Dec. 30, Rizal Day. Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, is a special holiday, while Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve, is a special nonworking day.
Police deployment
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), meanwhile, said that it is deploying more than 14,000 police officers to secure churches, transport hubs and shopping malls for the duration of the holiday season, including the nine-day “Simbang Gabi” masses.
NCRPO chief Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin said on Thursday the police are already on heightened alert status, which could be elevated depending on developments.
“We are already starting the deployment. This will be intensified on Dec. 16, knowing that’s when Simbang Gabi will start,” he said in a phone interview with reporters.
According to him, police officers will be stationed at churches, bus terminals, airports, jeepney terminals and surrounding streets. —WITH A REPORT FROM GABRYELLE DUMALAG
