DepEd Adopts Four-Day Onsite Workweek for Non-Teaching Staff

The Department of Education has approved a four-day onsite work arrangement for its non-teaching personnel as part of government efforts to reduce energy consumption amid rising global fuel prices.

In a memorandum issued by Education Secretary Sonny Angara, employees covered by the policy will report physically to offices from Monday to Thursday, while Fridays will be designated as a work-from-home day beginning March 9.

The adjustment applies to non-teaching and related teaching personnel, including those working under contract-of-service and job order arrangements. Teachers, however, will continue following their regular schedules to ensure classes and end-of-school-year activities proceed without disruption.

The move aligns with an earlier directive from Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urging government agencies to adopt energy-saving measures in response to volatility in global oil markets linked to the Middle East conflict.

Energy-Saving Measures in Offices

Aside from the modified workweek, DepEd offices nationwide have been instructed to adopt stricter energy conservation practices. The department is aiming to cut electricity and fuel consumption by 10 to 20 percent.

Among the measures ordered are setting air-conditioning units to 24°C, activating sleep modes on office equipment, and turning off unnecessary lights and electronic devices during lunch breaks and after office hours.

Employees are also encouraged to use stairs instead of elevators when possible to further reduce energy use.

Shift to Virtual Meetings

To minimize travel and fuel consumption, the department also directed offices to prioritize virtual meetings, consultations, and conferences with other agencies. In-person meetings will only be allowed if they are considered operationally necessary.

Official travel will likewise be limited to activities deemed essential and cannot be conducted online.

The policy follows Memorandum Circular No. 114, signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, which ordered government offices to implement stricter energy conservation measures as global fuel prices continue to fluctuate due to geopolitical tensions.