Manila suspends classes, city hall work for Feast of Black Nazarene

Joseph Estrada / Photo from Joseph Estrada’s Official Facebook Page

MANILA — Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada suspends classes, city hall work on Friday, the Feast of Black Nazarene.

“Classes for all levels, in all universities, colleges and schools in the City of Manila is suspended on 09 January 2015, Friday,” Executive Order No. 01, signed by Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada on Monday, said.

The Executive Order does not cover work in national government offices and private offices, or in select frontline and security services

“Work is suspended on 09 January 09, 2015, Friday, in all departments, offices and bureaus in the City Government of Manila, except those involved in the maintenance of peace and order, traffic enforcement, disaster and risk reduction management, health and sanitation and in the issuance of business permits and collection of taxes,” it said.

The suspension of classes was based on the recommendation of various offices considering the thousands of pilgrims the city is expecting to participate in the procession of the Black Nazarene.

“The Traffic Management Committee, the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau, the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office and the Manila Police District have recommended the suspension of classes for all levels in all universities, colleges and schools in the City of Manila, as well as, the suspension of work in the City Government Offices to ensure public order safety and convenience and to reduce traffic congestion during the occasion,” the E.O. read.