President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of PCO)
Malacañang disclosed that its communications arm—Presidential Communications Office (PCO)—has adopted a hybrid work arrangement, including a four-day onsite workweek and one work-from-home (WFH) day.
In a memorandum dated March 8 and signed by PCO Acting Secretary Dave Gomez, the office said all personnel will report onsite from Monday to Thursday, while Friday will be the common WFH day, except for output-based Contract of Service (COS) personnel.
The new work arrangement came after President Marcos directed government offices to implement energy conservation measures to cushion the expected impacts of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
It can be recalled that Marcos issued Memorandum Circular No. 114, directing government agencies to adopt energy conservation and efficiency measures to reduce electricity and fuel consumption.
Under the guidelines, personnel may follow shifting schedules between 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., provided they complete the required 40 working hours for the week.
Cluster heads and supervisors are required to submit monthly work programs that will guide personnel’s deliverables during WFH days.
Attendance and productivity will be monitored through the digital attendance system managed by the Information and Communications Technology Division.
The memo also outlined energy-saving measures at the New Executive Building, including regulating lighting and air-conditioning schedules, setting thermostats to 24°C, and requiring office equipment to be set to energy-saving mode when not in use.
The hybrid work arrangement is temporary and will remain in effect for the duration of the President’s directive on energy conservation.