-
The Office of the President has issued Memorandum Circular 114 that, among others, mandates a temporary four-day onsite work week for government agencies under the executive branch
-
The order, effective March 9, is meant to cushion the Philippine economy from the volatile global energy market following a dramatic spike in oil prices triggered by escalating conflicts in the Middle East
-
Under the circular, agencies must adopt either a compressed workweek or a designated common day for work-from-home arrangements
In a move to cushion the Philippine economy from the volatile global energy market, the Office of the President has issued Memorandum Circular (MC) 114 that, among others, mandates a temporary four-day onsite work week for government agencies under the executive branch.
The directive takes effect on March 9.
This emergency measure follows a dramatic spike in oil prices triggered by escalating conflicts in the Middle East, aimed at drastically reducing the public sector’s energy footprint.
Under the circular, signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, agencies must adopt either a compressed workweek or a designated common day for work-from-home arrangements.
Beyond modified schedules, the order enforces strict conservation protocols, including setting thermostats to a standard 24°C, turning off non-essential lights during breaks, and prioritizing virtual meetings to minimize travel-related fuel consumption.
Trade and transport readiness
Given their critical roles in national revenue and supply chains, key maritime and trade agencies have quickly clarified their operational stances:
- Bureau of Customs (BOC): To prevent trade bottlenecks, the BOC is expected to deploy skeleton workforces for frontline services. Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno has emphasized that while administrative units may transition to a 4-day onsite schedule, port operations will remain continuous to ensure “uninterrupted flow of trade” and meet 2026 revenue targets.
- Philippine Ports Authority (PPA): General Manager Jay Santiago confirmed that despite energy-saving measures, major maritime gateways remain fully operational. The PPA is closely monitoring shipping routes, particularly for energy-related shipments from the Middle East, to prevent domestic disruptions while complying with the President’s conservation mandate.
While the directive is temporary, it signals a strategic shift in government resource management during global crises.
Gatchalian proposes 4-day work week to reduce energy consumption
