Philippines shuts schools, suspends forex trading due to Storm Trami

The Philippines has suspended government work and shut schools, and its central bank halted foreign currency trading due to Tropical Storm Trami, which was barreling in towards the east coast of the country's main island of Luzon.

State weather forecaster Pag-asa said in its 5 a.m. (2100 GMT) bulletin Trami's center was last estimated at 180 km (112 miles) off the central town of Virac in Catanduanes province.

Pag-asa warned of strong winds, heavy rain and storm surges in coastal towns within the typhoon's path.

Storm Trami has brought heavy rains, forcing local governments to evacuate residents along its path. The storm, which was packing winds of 85 kph (53 mph), also shut down government work and schools across the main island of Luzon.

In turn, the Philippine central bank on Wednesday suspended currency trading and monetary operations for the day.

Agencies involved in disaster response and vital services remained open, the office of the president said.