To accommodate the observance of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, Malacañang Palace has announced a half-day work schedule for government offices on March 27, 2024. This decision, outlined in Memorandum Circular No. 45 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, aims to provide employees with ample time to travel to their respective provinces for the Lenten season.
The memorandum, released via the Official Gazette, stipulates that work in government offices will be suspended from 12 noon onwards on March 27, 2024, allowing employees to participate in religious activities and spend time with their families during this significant period in the Christian calendar.
While the directive ensures a shortened workday for most government employees, agencies involved in delivering basic and health services, disaster response, and other vital functions will remain operational. This is to ensure the continuous provision of essential services to the public.
The announcement comes in light of Proclamation No. 368 from the Official Gazette, which lists regular and special non-working holidays in the Philippines. Notably, the proclamation did not include March 27, 2024, making the half-day work arrangement a significant decision by the Palace to accommodate the needs of government workers during the Lenten season.
With over 85 million Filipinos, 78.8% Roman Catholic, according to 2020 PSA Census, Holy Week holds immense cultural and religious significance. The Palace anticipates a significant exodus as Filipinos travel to their hometowns and provinces for religious ceremonies and family time.
Ultimately, the declaration of a half-day work schedule on March 27, 2024, signifies the government’s commitment to respecting religious traditions. The move also ensures that employees have the opportunity to observe important holidays without undue hardship.
Keep Reading: Where to Spend Holy Week 2024: Top Destinations for Spiritual Relaxation
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