President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Announced a series of measures on March 6, 2026, designed to mitigate the economic impact of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East on the Philippines.
Government Response to Rising Costs
Effective March 9, 2026, a four-day work week will be implemented in some executive offices. However, this temporary measure will not affect emergency or essential service providers, including police, firefighters, and frontline public servants.
All government agencies have been directed to reduce electricity consumption and petroleum costs by 10% to 20%. Non-essential government travel, including study tours, team-building activities, and meetings, is temporarily prohibited and will be conducted online where possible.
Addressing Fuel Prices
The President indicated the government will work with Congress to potentially reduce excise taxes on petroleum products should the price of oil reach US$80 per barrel. Amendments to the Biofuels Act of 2006 are also being considered to allow for the use of cheaper bioethanol in gasoline.
Fuel subsidies and cash transfers will be distributed to affected sectors. President Marcos Jr. Also cautioned businessmen and traders against hoarding and profiteering, reminding them that such practices are prohibited by law.
The President assured citizens that the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Migrant Workers, and the Overseas Workers Welfare Association are in communication with Filipinos in the Middle East to monitor conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes are being made to the work week?
A four-day work week will be implemented for some executive offices, effective March 9, 2026, but will not apply to emergency or essential service providers.
What is being done to address rising fuel costs?
The government will work with Congress to potentially reduce excise taxes on petroleum products and amend the Biofuels Act of 2006. Fuel subsidies and cash transfers will also be distributed.
What is the government doing to help Filipinos in the Middle East?
The Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Migrant Workers, and the Overseas Workers Welfare Association are monitoring conditions and have begun the evacuation of Filipinos who wish to return home.
As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, will these measures be sufficient to shield the Philippines from further economic disruption?
