Malacañang issued Memorandum Circular (MC) 64, shortening the work hours in government offices on Sept. 23 in line with the observance of the 32nd National Family Week and Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day.

Under MC 64 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Sept. 12, work in the executive branch will be suspended from 3 p.m. onwards that day.

MC 67 recognizes the need for government workers to celebrate with their families the National Family Week and 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,” the order read.

The memorandum circular encourages the suspension of work in all branches of government, independent commissions or bodies, and the private sector to afford all Filipino families the full opportunity to celebrate the 32nd National Family Week.

However, MC 64 directs government agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness, response to disasters and calamities, and the performance of other vital services to continue their operations and render the necessary services.

Proclamation 60 issued in 1992 declares the last week of September of every year as Family Week.

On the other hand, Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day is held every fourth Monday of September every year, by virtue of Proclamation 326 issued in 2012.

The country commemorates the National Family Week to strengthen and promote unity, solidarity and stability of the Filipino Family as the basic unit of Filipino society.

Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day is observed annually to highlight and celebrate the value of Filipino families sharing meals as a national tradition.

The National Committee on the Filipino Family, mandated to promote the family as the foundation of the nation, is in charge of leading the national observance of Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day. (PNA)