CEBU CITY — Employees at the Cebu Provincial Capitol will no longer report to work on Fridays as the provincial government implements a four-day workweek to conserve energy.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro formalized the change by signing Executive Order 16, series of 2026. The order introduces a compressed work schedule and additional energy-saving measures for provincial offices.
Beginning this week, employees will work from Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m. To 7 p.m., completing a 40-hour workweek through extended daily shifts.
Governor Baricuatro stated the policy followed discussions within the Capitol to promote responsible energy use. She also encouraged the province’s 53 component cities and municipalities to consider similar measures, with the caveat that essential public services must continue without interruption.
Frontline offices providing health care, emergency response and public safety will maintain their regular schedules. The executive order directs offices to maintain air-conditioning at 24 degrees Celsius, switch off non-essential equipment and lights during breaks and after hours, and maximize natural lighting and ventilation.
The order also prioritizes cost-saving measures in transportation and official travel, recommending virtual meetings whenever possible. Compliance will be monitored by the Provincial Human Resource Management Office, Provincial General Services Office, and Provincial Planning and Development Office.
Assistant provincial administrator Aldwin Empaces indicated the government will study the policy’s social and economic effects, including potential impacts on daily commuters, habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) drivers, and jeepney drivers. Consultations with private stakeholders are planned to assess potential disruptions, and contingency plans, such as accelerated rice distribution, are under consideration.
Vice Gov. Glenn Soco cautioned against a hasty shift to shorter workweeks, warning that sectors like retail and health care could face disruptions. He suggested exploring alternatives such as reviewing daylight-saving time and preparing for potential inflationary effects.
This move follows a similar decision at the national level, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Temporarily implemented a four-day workweek in selected executive branch offices starting March 9, also to conserve energy and reduce fuel use amid rising oil prices. Malacañang’s Memorandum Circular 114 applies to a broad range of government entities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest work schedule for Cebu Provincial Capitol employees?
Employees will work from Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m. To 7 p.m., completing a 40-hour workweek.
Which offices are exempt from the four-day workweek?
Frontline offices handling health care, emergency response, and public safety will maintain their regular schedules.
What other measures are being implemented alongside the four-day workweek?
Offices are directed to maintain air-conditioning at 24 degrees Celsius, switch off non-essential equipment, maximize natural lighting, and prioritize virtual meetings.
As Cebu and the national government adapt to evolving energy concerns, will similar measures turn into more widespread across the Philippines?
