The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially approved a four-day onsite workweek for its non-teaching personnel, effective Monday, March 9, 2026. This significant policy shift, announced in a memorandum issued by Education Secretary Sonny Angara on March 8, designates Fridays as the standard work-from-home day for all covered employees.
Directive from the Top
This move follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to implement energy conservation measures across all government offices. The initiative is a direct response to escalating oil prices, which have been exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. By reducing the number of days staff are required to be physically present, the government aims to cut down on fuel consumption and operational energy use.
Who is Affected?
The new policy applies broadly to non-teaching and related-teaching personnel, including contract-of-service and job order employees. Importantly, teachers are exempt from this arrangement and will continue with their regular classroom schedules and other educational activities without interruption.
Energy-Saving Measures
Alongside the reduced onsite work schedule, DepEd has mandated a series of energy-saving practices designed to slash electricity and fuel consumption by 10% to 20%. These measures include:
- Setting air conditioning units to a maximum of 24°C.
- Utilizing sleep mode on all office equipment when not in active use.
- Turning off unnecessary lights and electronics during lunch breaks and after office hours.
- Encouraging the use of stairs instead of elevators to reduce power usage.
Operational Adjustments
To further minimize energy expenditure, DepEd has instructed that inter-agency meetings, consultations, and conferences be conducted virtually whenever possible. Official travel will now be strictly limited to essential or critical duties that cannot be accomplished through online platforms. This holistic approach ensures that the department's operations align with national energy conservation goals while maintaining productivity.
The implementation of this four-day workweek represents a proactive step by DepEd to address economic pressures and environmental concerns, setting a precedent for other government agencies to follow in promoting sustainable practices.
