Gorio strengthens as Palace suspends work in gov’t offices, public schools in Metro Manila

July 27, 2017

Tropical Storm Gorio slowed down but strengthened as it moves north-northwest, prompting Malacanang to declare suspension of classes and work in government offices in Metro Manila. "The Office of the Executive Secretary announced work suspension in all government levels in National Capital Region starting 1 pm.  The same with classes in public schools in all levels," said Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella on Thursday. "It is the private schools' discretion to suspend their classes," added Abella. Tropical Storm Gorio is packing winds of 85 kph and gusts of up to 105 kph, the state weather agency said in its 11 am bulletin. Gorio was seen 615 kilometers east of Tuguegarao at 10 am. "It is expected to intensify into a severe tropical storm within the next 24 hours," it said. Rains being felt in Metro Manila are caused by the southwest monsoon which is expected to bring "moderate to ocasionally heavy rains in the western section of Luzon." DMS