The Batasang Pambansa facade (Photo from the Facebook account of the House of Representatives)

MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Sunday ordered the early dismissal of local government workers in light of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s first State of the Nation Address (Sona), which will be held at the House of Representatives in Quezon City.

“In view of the first State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., the office hours of the entire Quezon City local government on Monday, July 25, shall be up to 12 noon only,” said a memorandum signed by Belmonte.

The memo, however, said essential services such as law enforcement, traffic management, fire protection, health and rescue, disaster response and management, “shall remain uninterrupted.”

Previously, the local government announced that all classes in all private and public schools in the city will be suspended on Monday.

This, as residents and students of Quezon City will be affected by road closures which would cause traffic.

Several demonstrations to be staged by pro-Marcos supporters and progressive groups are also expected to affect the traffic situation of Commonwealth Avenue.

EDV