Philippines Implements Four-Day Working Week Amid Middle East Conflict Energy Crisis
Manila — The Philippine government is implementing a four-day working week commencing 9 March 2026. This measure has been adopted to conserve energy usage amid supply disruptions and price volatility stemming from escalating conflict in the Middle East.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. clarified that the policy applies only to executive branch government offices and does not include emergency or essential services, such as the police, fire department, and offices serving the public directly.
“Starting Monday, 9 March, we will temporarily implement a four-day working week in selected executive branch offices. This does not apply to emergency or essential services,” Marcos stated in an official announcement, as reported by The Inquirer on Monday (9/3/2026).
The latest directive from Marcos is outlined in Memorandum Circular No. 114 and aligns with the Philippine Civil Service Commission (CSC) Memorandum Circular No. 6 of 2022, as amended by CSC Memorandum Circular No. 1 of 2025.
“All agencies are hereby directed to formulate their respective internal guidelines to ensure proper monitoring and documentation, including attendance verification, performance standards, and monitoring mechanisms, in accordance with existing CSC laws, rules, and regulations,” the circular states.
The policy remains in effect until the Philippine President issues further amendments or revocation.
Several government agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry, have decided to implement remote working arrangements beginning 13 March 2026, following the Middle East situation that is expected to influence global oil prices.
However, the Philippines’ largest business organisation, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), has advised that implementation of the four-day week in the private sector should be undertaken cautiously. According to the PCCI, the policy must be tailored to the specific needs of individual industries.
“We do not oppose flexible working arrangements, but there must be consultation with various stakeholders and data-driven support to ensure sectors with specific operational requirements are not adversely affected,” said Ferdinand Ferrer, PCCI President.