It's Official: Government Employees Get Temporary Four-Day Workweek
Here's what you need to know.
Published on Mar 6, 2026
(SPOT.ph) Heads up, government workers: you're getting one less day at the office—for now. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. just announced that government offices will temporarily shift to a four-day workweek starting March 9.
This setup will remain in effect “until lifted or revoked by the President.”
This announcement comes as petroleum prices climb following escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have prompted the Malacanang to look for ways to reduce energy consumption.
Also read: Should the Philippines Be Worried About Conflict in the Middle East?
Government employees covered in the four-day workweek setup
Under the arrangement, government employees will report to the office for four days a week, completing the required working hours under a compressed work schedule.
However, the policy does not apply to offices providing emergency and frontline services, such as the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
“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 said.
There is also a directive to temporarily ban non-essential government trips and activities, including study tours, team-building activities, and meetings that can be online.
Also read: Is the Philippines Ready for a Four-Day Workweek?
Micah believes that writing is always political. Beyond the byline, you’ll find her bruising herself on a pole or doting on her beagle. Reach her at micah@spot.ph.