Private sector urged to follow government's four-day workweek

Philippine private companies should consider implementing the government's four‑day workweek or to have staggered work‑hour setup amid the impact of fuel price hikes and broader economic disruptions caused by the Middle East war, Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero appealed over the weekend, March 8, 2026.

Having flexible arrangements could help reduce daily transportation expense, lower operating costs, provide workers with added relief as global oil markets remain volatile, as well reduce billions of pesos in lost opportunities every day because of traffic congestion, Escudero said.

“Acting this early as we anticipate what could possibly happen would strengthen the country’s resilience should the situation worsen,” the senator advised.

He  noted that Congress has long implemented a four‑day workweek for its personnel and suggested that adopting similar schemes in a broader way  could help reduce fuel consumption, save energy, and ease traffic congestion.

Escudero pointed out the private sector would significantly amplify the benefits of the government’s temporary shift to a shorter work arrangement, especially in major business districts like Bonifacio Global City in Taguig and Makati.

He urged firms in these business districts to explore flexible setups that can reduce rush-hour traffic.

“These areas experience some of the heaviest daily traffic volumes, making them ideal starting points for mobility‑oriented workplace reforms,” he explained.

President Bongbong Marcos ordered a  four‑day workweek for select executive department offices and agencies starting on March 9 on a temporary basis to conserve energy and reduce fuel use. 

The directive, outlined in Memorandum Circular No. 114, mandates agencies to, among others, cut power and fuel use by 10 to 20 percent, keep airconditioning at 24°C, and suspend travel and activities which are not essential.

The circular also allows agencies to implement the four‑day onsite setup through a compressed workweek or a designated work‑from‑home day, consistent with Civil Service Commission policies.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) stated in a study that Metro Manila’s traffic congestion alone costs the economy an estimated P3.5 billion per day. The agency warned that it could rise to P5.4 billion daily by 2035 if it is not addressed. 

“If we are losing P3.5 billion every single day because of traffic, that means Metro Manila is bleeding roughly P105 billion a month and more than P1.27 trillion a year,” Escudero said. He added that even modest reductions in congestion can translate into massive national savings.

The senator called on the local government units of the major business districts to work closely with  companies on mobility plans like synchronized staggered schedules, improved pedestrian access, and safer bicycle routes. 

Escudero also urged the public to contribute in energy conservation by adopting daily habits such as biking short distances, carpooling, and adopting energy‑saving habits at home.