The Department of Education (DepEd) will implement energy conservation protocols and flexible work arrangements in compliance with Memorandum Circular No. 114 issued by the Office of the President of the Philippines on March 6.

In a memorandum dated March 8, Education Secretary Sonny Angara directed all DepEd offices to adopt the measures starting March 9 to help reduce electricity and fuel consumption amid rising energy costs.

Under the directive, DepEd offices must implement conservation measures such as maintaining air-conditioning units at 24°C, activating sleep mode on office equipment, and turning off non-essential lights and devices after office hours.

Meetings are also encouraged to be held virtually, while official travel will be limited to essential functions.

The department will also adopt a four-day onsite work arrangement from Monday to Thursday, with Friday designated as a common work-from-home day for non-teaching and related teaching personnel under DepEd Order No. 004, s. 2025.

Teaching personnel will continue to follow their existing class schedules to ensure uninterrupted classes and end-of-school-year activities.

DepEd said the flexible work setup aims to support energy conservation while ensuring the continuous delivery of government services.