CAPIZ — The provincial government of Capiz will implement a compressed four-day workweek beginning March 16, in a bid to promote responsible energy consumption and improve operational efficiency.
The initiative follows Memorandum Circular No. 114 issued by the Office of the President of the Philippines, which directs government agencies to adopt measures that balance productivity with sustainability.
Under the new work arrangement, provincial government employees will complete the standard 40-hour workweek over four days, with each workday lasting 10 hours.
Office hours will be from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday, including a one-hour lunch break. The adjusted schedule aims to reduce operational costs while ensuring uninterrupted and efficient delivery of public services.
Capiz Gov. Fredenil H. Castro said the initiative is not simply about reducing the number of workdays but about fostering a more productive workplace.
“By adopting this four-day workweek, we aim to boost employee morale, enhance work-life balance, and ultimately provide better services to our constituents,” Castro said.
The new schedule will apply to all provincial government offices. However, employees assigned to frontline service units, such as hospitals and other essential public service offices, will continue to follow their regular work schedules to ensure the continuity of vital services.
The provincial government said department heads and chiefs of offices are tasked with ensuring compliance with the new work arrangement to maintain accountability and efficiency across government operations.
Aside from improving productivity, the initiative is also expected to generate energy savings in support of the national government’s push for conservation and responsible resource use.
The Capiz provincial government is optimistic that the policy could serve as a model for other local government units by demonstrating how innovative work arrangements can improve both employee welfare and public service delivery.
A public information campaign has also been launched to inform residents about the changes and their possible impact on government services./PN
