MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 131, August 19, 2026

DIRECTING GOVERNMENT OFFICE TO IMPLEMENT APPROPRIATE ALTERNATIVE WORK ARRANGEMENTS IN THE NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION AND THE PROVINCE OF ABRA, BENGUET, ILOCOS NORTE, ILOCOS SUR, LA…

Memorandum Circulars August 19, 2026
Download PDF Source



Upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and in anticipation of continued heavy rainfall associated with the enhanced Southwest Monsoon, which poses risks of localized flooding and travel hazards, government offices are directed to implement appropriate alternative work arrangements in the National Capital Region and the provinces of Abra, Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilococos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, and Occidental Mindoro on 20 August 2026.

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 their operations and render the necessary services. Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) workers who are placed under alternative work arrangements shall be paid the corresponding wages or salaries, subject to applicable rules and regulations.

Unless otherwise directed by their respective Local Chief Executives, alternative learning modes for all classes and learning continuity measures at all levels in public and private schools shall be implemented in the aforementioned areas.

Further thereto, the localized cancellation or suspension of classes and/or work in government offices in other areas may be implemented by their respective Local Chief Executives, pursuant to relevant laws, rules and regulations.

The suspension of work or adoption of alternative work arrangements in the private sector shall be left to the discretion of management.

This Circular shall take effect immediately.

Manila, 19 August 2026


By authority of the President:

   (SGD.) RALPH G. RECTO
Acting Executive Secretary