In response to the ongoing Middle East conflict and resultant oil crisis, the Manila Archdiocese implements a four-day workweek to conserve energy through April 30, 2026.
The Manila Archdiocese has announced a compressed workweek schedule effective from Monday, April 6, until Thursday, April 30, 2026. This is in response to an oil crisis precipitated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has disrupted petroleum shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil export route.
Chancellor Carmelo Arada Jr. signed the directive stating that all offices, commissions, ministries, and houses in the archdiocese will operate from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. This change is intended as an expression of solidarity and a shared responsibility to conserve energy.
This move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s earlier decision to implement a four-day workweek in executive department offices starting March 9, 2026. Additionally, government agencies and instrumentalities have been ordered to reduce their electricity and fuel consumption by 10% to 20%. Several departments, including Finance, Science and Technology, and Justice, have already adopted similar measures.
Notably, the Commission on Elections stated it will not join the four-day workweek due to increased workload for upcoming elections but will implement other energy-saving protocols such as earlier air conditioning shutdowns, turning off unused lights, conducting virtual meetings, and encouraging carpooling.
These coordinated efforts reflect efforts across government and institutions to address energy demands amid global supply challenges resulting from geopolitical conflicts.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/982325/manila-archdiocese-implements-compressed-workweek-to-save-energy/story/