Philippines eyes 4 day work week to fight high fuel costs

Fewer days, cheaper commute / Photo: Shutterstock

Authorities in the Philippines are considering introducing a four-day workweek as part of efforts to reduce fuel consumption, according to a report by The Guardian.

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The proposal comes as global fuel prices rise amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

The government is exploring several measures aimed at conserving energy. Public institutions have already been instructed to reduce fuel consumption by at least 10%.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged residents to drive less, arrange carpools and rely more on public transportation.

The potential measures would apply to national government agencies, public universities and local administrations. Authorities have also advised institutions to reduce business travel and hold more meetings online.

Officials are also considering new rules for air-conditioning in government offices. Under the proposal, thermostats would be set no lower than 24°C to help reduce electricity consumption.

Read also: Tokyo tries 4-day workweek to fix ailing birth rate.

Flexible work schedules are also under discussion, including the option of a four-day workweek, though no final decision has been announced.

Energy experts note that the Philippines relies heavily on imported oil. Roughly 90% of the country’s fuel supplies come from the Persian Gulf region.

Because of this dependence, fluctuations in global oil prices quickly affect the national economy and can contribute to rising inflation.