MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the temporary implementation of a four-day workweek in some government agencies as officials seek to reduce energy consumption amid rising global oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.  

In a message to the nation on Friday, Marcos said the policy would take effect on Monday, March 9, and would apply to selected offices under the executive branch.  

“Para naman sa bahagi ng pamahalaan: Simula sa Lunes, ika-9 ng Marso, pansamantala nating ipapatupad ang four-day work week sa ilang tanggapan ng ehekutibo,” the president said.  

Shortly after the announcement, the presidential palace released Memorandum Circular No. 114, outlining details of the directive.  

The circular states that the policy will cover national government agencies, government-owned or controlled corporations, local government units, constitutional bodies, state universities and colleges, and other government instrumentalities.  

According to the document, the measure is aimed at reducing the government’s energy use. “There is an urgent need to adopt strict energy conservation measures, to further reduce the energy footprint of government operations and optimize the use of public resources,” the memorandum stated.  

The four-day onsite work arrangement is aligned with guidelines under Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 6 (2022), as amended by Memorandum Circular No. 1 (2025).  

Officials said the arrangement will remain in place “until lifted or sooner revoked by the President.”  

Government agencies have also been instructed to set internal monitoring systems. “All agencies are directed to formulate internal guidelines to ensure proper monitoring and documentation, including verification of attendance, performance standards, and monitoring mechanisms, in accordance with existing CSC laws, rules, and regulations,” the circular said.  

The president added that offices providing essential public services would continue normal operations. These include health services, emergency response units, and public safety agencies such as police and firefighters.  

Alongside the shortened workweek, government offices have been instructed to cut electricity and fuel consumption by between 10% and 20%.  

Under the memorandum, agencies must keep air-conditioning units set at 24°C, switch off non-essential lighting and electronic equipment during lunch breaks and after office hours, and place office equipment in sleep mode when not in use.  

Marcos also ordered a temporary suspension of non-essential government travel and activities, including study tours, team-building events, and meetings that can be conducted online.  

Malacañang said it is also considering additional measures to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices, including possible tax adjustments on petroleum products and expanded fuel subsidies.  

📷 PCO