Manila, March 31 -- Government offices will shift to a work-from-home arrangement for half a day on Holy Wednesday (April 1), Malacanang said Tuesday.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced that government employees will work remotely from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., after which work in government offices will be suspended.

The adjustment is in line with the observance of Holy Week, one of the most significant religious periods in the country, when many Filipinos travel to their home provinces or participate in religious activities.

Maundy Thursday (April 2) and Good Friday (April 3) are regular holidays, while Black Saturday (April 4) was declared a special non-working day.

The long weekend traditionally sees a surge in travel, as famil...