4-day workweek in gov't announced amid fuel price surge fearsPresident Ferdinand Marcos delivers a speech at the Philippines-Korea Business Forum in Pasay, Metro Manila on March 4, 2026. MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered government offices to temporarily shift to a four-day workweek starting March 9 as the government prepares for possible fuel price hikes linked to tensions in the Middle East. Possible oil price spikeMarcos warned that a disruption in the Strait of Hormuz — a key shipping route for global oil — could sharply increase local fuel prices. Other measures consideredMarcos urged Congress to authorize him to reduce excise taxes on petroleum products if global crude oil prices exceed $80 per barrel. The government is also preparing fuel subsidies and cash transfers for sectors affected by rising oil prices, though details have yet to be released.

Source: Philippine Star March 06, 2026 15:00 UTC