DepEd clarifies Friday WFH policy applies only to non-teaching staff

The Department of Education clarified that its Friday work from home (WFH) policy applies only to non-teaching personnel in DepEd offices, while teachers and school-based staff will continue reporting to schools.

In a memorandum dated March 11, DepEd said the WFH arrangement under DepEd Memorandum No. 18, series of 2026, covers non-teaching and related teaching personnel in central, regional, and division offices.

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

The policy stems from government efforts to conserve energy through a four-day onsite work schedule from Monday to Thursday, with Friday designated as the common work from home day for eligible personnel.

DepEd also clarified that the government directive on flexible work arrangements does not cover school-based personnel and that the WFH provision for non-teaching staff in schools is temporarily suspended until further notice.

The department said all other provisions under DepEd Memorandum No. 18, s. 2026 remains in effect.

The memo was issued by Fatima Lipp Panontongan, DepEd undersecretary and chief of staff. — VBL, GMA Integrated News