QUEZON CITY (PIA) -- In a bid to tackle the perennial issue of traffic congestion, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Metro Manila Council (MMC) have taken a progressive step by adopting a flexible working schedule for public servants in local government units (LGUs) across the metro.
This move aligns closely with the Civil Service Commission's (CSC) Policy on Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs), urging agencies and government workers nationwide to embrace innovative approaches to public service.
CSC Chairperson Karlo Nograles highlighted the importance of the MMDA's resolution and stated that the implementation of a modified working schedule from 7 am to 4 pm for officials and employees in LGUs is consistent with the Policy on Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) issued by the CSC for agencies and government workers nationwide.
The National Capital Region, boasting a staggering 440,009 government workers, stands as the nucleus of the country's public service sector, making the need for streamlined operations all the more pressing.
“The prevailing traffic conditions in the metro not only hinder their mobility but also impact their productivity, particularly for those who commute daily. By adopting the FWA, we can enhance their efficiency and safeguard their health, safety, and welfare,” said the CSC Chairperson.
Underpinning this initiative is CSC Resolution No. 2200209, issued on 18 May 2022, which embraced CSC Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 6, s. 2022. These policies seek to institutionalize FWAs, recognizing the evolving needs and conditions of the workforce.
In a February 2024 advisory, the CSC reiterated the importance of these policies, citing the vital role FWAs play in enhancing organizational agility and resiliency. The advisory outlined various forms of FWAs that government agencies may adopt to ensure uninterrupted public service delivery.
Among these options, the Flexiplace arrangement offers officials and employees the flexibility to work outside their office, including from home or satellite offices, provided it meets approval from the agency head.
For agencies requiring round-the-clock operations or adhering to stringent health protocols, the Work Shifting model allows for flexible hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., maintaining the mandatory 40-hour workweek.
The Compressed Workweek initiative condenses the standard workweek into fewer days, enhancing work-life balance and efficiency, while the Skeleton Workforce model ensures essential services are maintained during critical periods.
Encouraging a nuanced approach, agencies can combine these FWAs as needed, tailoring solutions to their specific mandates and operational demands.
With the convergence of the MMDA's forward-looking resolution and the CSC's resolute stance on FWAs, a new era of adaptable, efficient, and resilient public service will happen. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
