Manila: Malaca±ang has announced a directive to shorten work hours in government offices on September 28, allowing employees to participate in the 34th National Family Week and the Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day with their families. Under Memorandum Circular No. 136, signed by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, work in the executive branch will be suspended from 1 p.m. onwards on that day, which falls on a Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the order applies to all government agencies and instrumentalities under the Executive branch, including government-owned and controlled corporations, as well as state universities and colleges. However, essential government services such as basic health, disaster preparedness, and response services will continue their operations to ensure public safety and well-being.

The memorandum encourages government workers in the Executive branch to actively support the programs and activities related to the observance of the 34th National Family Week, organized by the National Committee on the Filipino Family. Malaca±ang also urged other branches of government, independent commissions, and the private sector to follow suit in suspending work, allowing Filipino families to fully celebrate the occasion.

The initiative aligns with Proclamation Nos. 60 and 326, issued in 1992 and 2012, respectively. Proclamation No. 60 designates the last week of September as Family Week each year, while Proclamation No. 326 marks the fourth Monday of September as Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day. The National Family Week aims to reinforce the unity, solidarity, and stability of the Filipino family as the fundamental unit of society.

Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day specifically emphasizes the significance of Filipino families sharing meals, a cherished national tradition. The National Committee on the Filipino Family, tasked with advocating for the family as the nation's core foundation, spearheads the observance of Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day.