Half-day work in Executive branch, Senate on Sept. 22 for Family Week

Malacañang has shortened the work hours in the Executive Branch’s offices and departments on Monday next week for the 33rd Family Week and the “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day.

Work in government offices shall be suspended beginning at 1 p.m. on September 22, 2025, according to Memorandum Circular No. 96 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by authority of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

A copy of MC No. 96 was posted on the Presidential Communications Office’s website.

Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III has also ordered that work in the Senate shall only be until 1 p.m. to allow officials and employees to observe the “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day, according to Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. 

The shortening of work hours in bureaucratic offices was pursuant to Proclamation No. 60 (series of 1992) which declared the last week of September of every year as Family Week and Proclamation No. 326 (series of 2012) which declared the fourth Monday of September of every year as “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day.

“This Office also encourages all government workers in the Executive branch to fully support the programs and activities relative to the observance of Family Week, as organized by the National Committee on the Filipino Family,” MC No. 96 read.

Agencies with functions involving the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or the performance of vital services, however, shall continue their operations and render necessary services.

“The suspension of work in other branches of government, independent commissions or bodies, and the private sector is also encouraged, so as to afford all Filipino families the full opportunity to celebrate the 33rd National Family Week,” the circular read.

MC No. 96 takes effect immediately. --VAL/VBL, GMA Integrated News