Work in government offices on Wednesday, March 27, from 12 noon onwards was suspended to give employees an opportunity to "properly observe" the Holy Week.
President Marcos ordered this through Memorandum Circular No. 45 signed on his behalf by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Monday, March 25.
The declaration aims to "provide government employees full opportunity to properly observe Maundy Thursday and Good Friday."
It also intends to "allow them to travel to and from the different regions in the country, work in government offices."
Agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness and response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of other vital services shall, however, continue with their operations and render the necessary services.
"The suspension of work in private companies and offices is left to the sound discretion of their respective employers," the President said through the circular.