In a strategic response to escalating petroleum prices driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the Mandaue City Government has officially implemented a four-day workweek. This initiative aims to conserve energy and reduce fuel consumption, marking a significant shift in municipal operations.
Executive Order Signed by Mayor Ouano
Mayor Thadeo Jovito Ouano formalized the new work arrangement by signing an executive order on Friday, April 10, 2026. The policy is scheduled to take effect immediately in the following week, introducing a revised schedule for government employees.
Work Schedule and Remote Work Details
Under the new policy, government personnel will report on-site from Monday to Thursday, while Fridays are designated as work-from-home days. This arrangement primarily applies to administrative staff whose tasks can be performed remotely without compromising efficiency.
City Administrator Gonzalo "Sally" Malig-on Jr. explained that the decision followed careful monitoring of fuel price trends. He noted that initial hopes for a quick resolution to global tensions have not materialized, necessitating proactive measures.
"The mayor initially hoped that the situation would stabilize, but with the current prices of petroleum products, he decided that it is necessary to implement this strategy," Malig-on stated.
Exceptions and Essential Services
While many employees will transition to remote work, departments delivering essential and frontline services will continue operating on-site. These include health and medical services, emergency response, waste management and sanitation, traffic enforcement, and city hospitals.
Offices such as the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Market Authority may also allow work-from-home arrangements, provided that employees' responsibilities do not require physical presence. Department heads will adjust schedules to ensure uninterrupted public access to critical services.
Balancing Public Service and Economic Pressures
Malig-on emphasized that the policy aims to strike a balance between maintaining high-quality public service and addressing economic pressures from rising fuel costs. The city government has introduced additional fuel-saving measures, including limiting government vehicle use to essential travel and promoting energy conservation across all offices.
Inspired by Regional Efforts
This initiative mirrors similar efforts in Cebu City, which is currently conducting a test run of a four-day workweek from April 6 to 17. Mandaue City officials expressed optimism that the new policy will not only reduce operational expenses but also help employees manage transportation costs.
By ensuring that essential government services remain fully functional, the city hopes to foster a sustainable and responsive administrative environment amid global economic challenges.
