The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered courts nationwide—except the Sandiganbayan and the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA)—to observe a four-day on-site work schedule from Monday to Thursday and a one-day work-from-home (WFH) arrangement on Fridays starting March 9.
Issued under Memorandum Circular No. 02-2026 by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, the directive covers the SC, Court of Appeals, and lower courts, including regional and municipal trial courts.
“No hearing shall be cancelled on the ground that any of the parties, counsels, or concerned court personnel cannot participate in the videoconferencing,” the SC said.
It also noted that at least 25 percent of employees must report onsite on WFH Fridays to ensure continuity. Personnel on remote work are required to remain reachable during office hours and attend meetings or hearings when directed.
Certain offices—including the Office of the Chief Justice, Associate Justices’ offices, and essential staff of the Management Information Systems Office—are excluded and will maintain regular work arrangements. The Sandiganbayan and CTA will continue full five-day on-site operations.
The SC cited President Marcos’ Memorandum Circular No. 114, directing energy conservation and flexible work arrangements in government, as a guiding principle.
The judiciary emphasized that WFH should not justify delays, neglect, or failure to meet required outputs, and monthly accomplishment reports must be submitted.
Heads of offices, presiding justices, and clerks of court are responsible for compliance, with violations—including false reports, unauthorized absences, or unnecessary travel—subject to administrative action.
The full text of Memorandum Circular No. 02-2026 is available on the SC website at sc.judiciary.gov.ph.