The Department of Education (DepEd) clarified that the four-day workweek arrangement for some government offices will not apply to public schools.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara confirmed that while DepEd offices may follow the new work arrangement, regular classes in public schools will continue as usual.
“I don’t believe so, but the DepEd offices are covered,” Angara said in an interview.
4-Day Workweek for Some Government Agencies
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently announced that selected government offices under the executive branch will temporarily adopt a four-day workweek starting March 9.
The measure is part of the government’s response to the expected increase in global oil prices, which may be affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
According to the President, tensions in the region have affected the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes. Disruptions in this area can reduce oil supply and lead to higher fuel prices worldwide.
Expected Increase in Fuel Prices
The government is preparing for a possible surge in petroleum prices in the coming weeks. Estimates show that fuel prices may increase by:
- Gasoline: up to ₱7.80 per liter
- Diesel: up to ₱17.28 per liter
- Kerosene: up to ₱32.35 per liter
These adjustments are expected to affect transportation and operational costs across the country.
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Memorandum Circular 114
Under Memorandum Circular No. 114, signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, government agencies are encouraged to adopt:
- A compressed four-day onsite workweek, or
- A designated work-from-home day
This arrangement follows Civil Service Commission (CSC) guidelines and aims to reduce building energy consumption and transportation fuel use.
Each agency is also instructed to create its own internal guidelines for implementing the work arrangement.
Other Government Energy Conservation Measures
Aside from the temporary four-day workweek, the government also introduced additional energy conservation measures, including:
- Limiting official travel to essential functions only
- Maintaining air-conditioning temperature at 24°C in government offices
- Encouraging virtual meetings instead of in-person gatherings
These initiatives aim to help the government manage energy resources during the ongoing global situation affecting oil supply.