The Supreme Court has ordered courts nationwide to adopt a four-day onsite and one-day work-from-home (WFH) setup starting March 9 to help conserve energy while maintaining court services.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 02-2026 issued by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, court personnel will report onsite from Monday to Thursday, while Friday will generally be designated as WFH day.
The arrangement covers the Court of Appeals and all trial courts, including regional, metropolitan, municipal, and municipal circuit trial courts.
However, the Sandiganbayan and the Court of Tax Appeals will continue with a full five-day onsite workweek.
At least 25% of personnel in each office must still report onsite every Friday to ensure operations.
The SC stressed that the WFH setup should not cause delays or cancellation of hearings, which may also be conducted through videoconferencing when allowed.
Night courts will continue operating for urgent cases such as bail for nighttime arrests.
The policy supports government energy-saving efforts under a directive issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and will remain in effect until lifted or modified by the high court.IMT
