President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the temporary implementation of a four-day workweek in selected government agencies starting Monday, March 9, as part of emergency measures to cut energy consumption amid surging global oil prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
In a recorded address, Marcos explained that the arrangement will apply only to certain executive offices, while essential and emergency services will continue operating under normal schedules.
“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.
He clarified that frontline and emergency services such as police, firefighters, and agencies providing direct public assistance are excluded from the scheme.
“Hindi kabilang dito ang mga nagbibigay ng emergency o pangunahing serbisyo, gaya ng mga pulis, bumbero, at mga tanggapan na nagbibigay ng frontline services sa publiko,” Marcos emphasized.
Beyond the shortened workweek, Marcos ordered all government offices to reduce electricity use and fuel spending by 10 to 20 percent.
“Bukod pa rito, inaatasan ko ang lahat ng ahensya ng ating pamahalaan na magtipid at magbawas ng sampu hanggang dalawampung porsyento sa konsumo ng kuryente at gastos sa petrolyo,” he said.
The President also suspended non-essential government travel and activities, including study tours, team-building programs, and in-person meetings that can be conducted virtually.
“Pansamantala ring ipinagbabawal ang mga biyahe at aktibidad ng pamahalaan na hindi naman kinakailangan, gaya ng mga study tour, team-building activities, o mga meeting na maaari naming gawin online,” he added.
These measures are part of the administration’s broader effort to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs, which officials warn could drive up transportation fares, electricity rates, and the prices of basic commodities nationwide.