Screengrab from PCO

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered some offices under the Executive Department to temporarily shift to a four-day workweek beginning March 9 as part of efforts to conserve fuel and electricity amid rising global oil prices.

The announcement was made on Friday as tensions in the Middle East continue to push petroleum prices upward, raising concerns about energy costs and their potential impact on the Philippine economy.

Under the directive, selected government offices will adopt a compressed work schedule aimed at reducing energy usage in public buildings and limiting travel-related fuel expenses.

However, the president clarified that agencies responsible for emergency response and essential public services will continue operating under their regular schedules.

“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 in a video message.

Aside from the temporary four-day workweek, Marcos also directed all government agencies to adopt energy-saving measures, including reducing electricity consumption and fuel use by 10 to 20 percent.

The president also ordered a temporary halt to non-essential government trips and activities, such as study tours, team-building events, and meetings that can be conducted online.

The policy comes as global oil prices fluctuate due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, a development that could raise fuel costs in the Philippines, which relies heavily on imported petroleum products.

Government officials said the measure will be monitored closely to ensure it does not disrupt public services while helping reduce energy consumption and operational costs.