Palace justifies suspension of classes, gov’t work for 2 days

October 17, 2017

Malacanang defended on Tuesday the suspension of classes and government work for two consecutive days due to a transport strike.

In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said when President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the suspension of classes and government work, he was acting as a parent.

"He's actually looking for the greater protection, greater safety of the students," Abella said.

Some netizens were complaining about the two-day work suspension, particularly those who need to transact with the government and daily wage earners.

"You know, we have to see all of these things in terms of nation building. Everybody pitches in. You know, when there’s a need to belt tighten and then we all --- everybody belt tighten. I think we should be able to appreciate that," Abella said.

On the possibility of make up classes, he said it would be up to the Department of Education.

For two days, the Palace suspended classes in public and private schools at all levels and work in government due to a strike by some transport groups opposing the modernization program for the public utility vehicles, including jeepneys.

Asked if suspension of classes and government work will be the usual practice everytime there is a transport strike, Abella said, "There’s no assumption regarding that." Celerina Monte/DMS