QuestionsQuestions (MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 16)
The main purpose is to suspend work in government offices on April 4, 2023, from 12:00 noon onwards to allow government employees to properly observe the regular holidays on April 6-7, 2023, and to facilitate their travel to and from different regions in the country.
The suspension of work was ordered to start on April 4, 2023, from 12:00 o'clock in the afternoon onwards.
No, the suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the sound discretion of their respective employers.
Agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, calamity response, and the performance of other vital services shall continue their operations and render necessary services.
The regular holidays referred to are April 6 and April 7, 2023.
The circular takes effect immediately upon its issuance.
The circular is issued by the authority of the President and is a directive to temporarily suspend work for purposes stated therein.
Though not explicitly stated in this memorandum, generally, when work is suspended by the government, employees are entitled to receive their regular compensation unless otherwise provided by law or agreement.
The legal concept is the exemption for agencies performing essential or vital services such as health, disaster response, and other critical functions that must operate continuously for public welfare.