Jan. 2 a holiday for executive branch workers

GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES under the executive branch will enjoy another day off on Jan. 2 next year, Malacañang announced on Monday. Executive Secretary Salvador S. Medialdea signed Memorandum Circular No. 54 on Dec. 17 for the work suspension covering “government offices throughout the country, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, state universities and colleges, local government units, and other agencies and instrumentalities.” It excludes “agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services.” It also provides: “The suspension of work on the same date in other branches of government and in independent commissions or bodies, as well as in private companies and offices, is left to the sound discretion of their respective heads/management.” The Palace said the extra holiday is intended to give employees full opportunity to celebrate New Year’s Day with their families and loved ones. — Arjay L. Balinbin