MANILA, Philippines — Starting today, March 9, 2026, almost all courts nationwide have officially transitioned to a four-day on-site work schedule. The move follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to reduce fuel consumption amid the escalating Middle East conflict and soaring oil prices.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 02-2026 issued by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo:
- Schedule: On-site work from Monday to Thursday; work-from-home (WFH) on Friday.
- Exceptions: The Sandiganbayan and the Court of Tax Appeals are excluded and will maintain their regular schedules.
- Continuity: At least 25% of staff must still report on-site every Friday to ensure operations do not stop.
- Hearings: The Supreme Court clarified that the new schedule will not cancel or postpone any scheduled court hearings.
- Energy Saving: Courts must maintain air-conditioning at 24°C, turn off equipment when not in use, and use elevators minimally.
Despite the government’s aim to save energy, several labor organizations are fiercely opposing the “compressed” workweek.
- “No Work, No Pay” Hardship: Santiago Dasmariñas Jr. of the Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE) pointed out that the policy ignores the nearly one million job order (JO) and contract of service (COS) workers. These workers are under a “no work, no pay” scheme and will lose income due to fewer on-site days.
- Employee Exhaustion: Jerome Adonis of Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) warned that squeezing a week’s worth of work into four days could lead to 12-hour workdays, resulting in extreme fatigue.
- Calls for Relief: Labor groups are instead calling for the removal of fuel excise taxes and a ₱200 legislated wage hike to provide actual economic relief to workers struggling with high prices.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) advised caution, stating that while the government can mandate these changes, the private sector must calibrate any schedule shifts to fit specific industry needs. Private companies can still utilize the Telecommuting Act (RA 11165) to offer flexible arrangements.