The Philippine government will implement a four-day workweek for all government offices starting Monday (March 9) as part of efforts to mitigate economic impacts from the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr made the announcement following significant disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for a third of the world’s oil supply, which is expected to drive up local fuel prices. He projected increases of 7.48 peso per litre (RM0.49) for petrol, 17.28 peso per litre (RM1.15) for diesel, and 32.35 peso per litre (RM2.15) for kerosene.
Marcos Jr emphasised that while the Philippines is not a party to the conflict, the government can take measures to protect its citizens. The country heavily relies on crude oil imports from the Middle East and still operates oil-powered plants for electricity generation.
The conflict has also threatened the livelihoods and safety of over two million Filipino workers in the Middle East. In addition to the shorter workweek, all government agencies have been instructed to cut fuel and electricity consumption by 10–20%, suspend official study tours, and postpone meetings that can be held online.
The president has also requested Congress to grant him authority to reduce excise taxes on petroleum if crude oil prices exceed A$80 per barrel (RM314) and to amend biofuel laws to allow cheaper bioethanol blends. Plans are also underway for fuel subsidies and cash aid to affected sectors, although details are yet to be finalised.
Marcos Jr clarified that the four-day workweek is temporary, with frontline services such as police and fire departments exempted from the measure.
