MANILA, Philippines — Government work in the Executive Branch will be suspended beginning 1 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, in observance of the 34th National Family Week.
Malacañang issued Memorandum Circular No. 136, ordering the shortened workday for all agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government under the Executive Branch.
The order also covers government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and state universities and colleges (SUCs), subject to exemptions for offices providing essential and vital services.
SEE ALSO: WALANG PASOK: Class suspensions on Tuesday, September 29, 2026
The Department of Education (DepEd), as a national government agency under the Executive Branch, is covered by the suspension of government work for its personnel.
However, the suspension of government work should not automatically be interpreted as a nationwide suspension of classes in public schools.
DepEd field offices and school heads may issue separate guidance or arrangements concerning class schedules and affected instructional hours, consistent with existing DepEd policies.
School heads are advised to make the necessary arrangements for affected class hours to ensure that learning competencies and required instructional time are still met.
Meanwhile, agencies involved in basic and health services, disaster preparedness and response, and other vital functions are required to continue their operations despite the shortened workday.
Malacañang encouraged government employees to fully support activities related to the observance of National Family Week and the strengthening of family relationships.
The memorandum also allows other branches of government, independent commissions and bodies, as well as private-sector employers, to suspend work at their discretion to give families time to celebrate the occasion.
The circular was issued pursuant to Proclamation No. 60, which declared the last week of September as Family Week, and Proclamation No. 326, which designated the fourth Monday of September as “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day.
For September 28, parents, students and employees are advised to check announcements from their respective schools, DepEd field offices and employers for specific arrangements.
— The Summit Express
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