By Benjamin Cuaresma
Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso has announced a major shift in the city’s work schedule, ordering a four-day work week with extended hours for city offices. The move is aimed at conserving energy and reducing fuel consumption amid rising global oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.
In his “Talk to the People” public broadcast, Domagoso said he signed Executive Order No. 8, Series of 2026, instituting a condensed work schedule for city government departments and offices. Under the order, city offices will operate from Monday to Thursday, with extended working hours, while regular office operations will be suspended on Fridays except for essential services.
The policy was issued in response to Memorandum Circular No. 114 signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., directing government agencies to adopt energy conservation protocols. Domagoso said the arrangement aims to reduce fuel consumption, lower operational costs, and ease traffic congestion while maintaining essential public services.
Essential services, including emergency response units, health services, and utilities, will remain operational with rotational schedules and staffing arrangements. The Mayor encouraged private businesses and households to adopt similar energy-saving measures, saying “Napakahirap ng sitwasyon sa mundo ngayon, kaya kailangan nating magtulungan at magkaisa.”
