Manila: Malaca±ang has permitted government offices to implement a work-from-home setup from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and suspend work from noon onwards on Holy Wednesday. This decision aims to provide government employees the opportunity to travel and prepare for the Holy Week break.

According to Philippines News Agency, the announcement was made through Memorandum Circular 81, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin. The circular states, "To provide government employees full opportunity to properly observe Maundy Thursday and Good Friday on 17-18 April 2025, and to allow them to travel to and from the different regions in the country, the following arrangements are hereby adopted in government offices on 16 April 2025: (a) work from home from 8:00 in the morning to 12:00 in the afternoon, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations; and (b) suspension of work in government offices, from 12:00 in the afternoon onwards."

Agencies involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness and response to disasters and calamities, and vital services will continue their operations under usual working arrangements, as mentioned in the memorandum. Meanwhile, the decision to adopt work-from-home and the suspension of work for private companies and offices is left to the discretion of their employers.

Since the weekend, with most schools on vacation, travelers have already started heading to the provinces to observe Holy Week. The week is significant for commemorating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ through various church services, processions, and personal acts of penance.