Ex MMDA chair: 4-day workweek may not help ease traffic congestion

MANILA, Philippines — The proposed four-day workweek may not help much in easing traffic congestion in Metro Manila, former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chair and Marikina City Rep. Bayani Fernando said Monday.

Instead of implementing a four-day workweek this coming holiday season, Fernando said it would be better for companies to just adjust their office hours.

“Not much,” Fernando said when asked if the proposal will make a big difference in terms of traffic in an interview over ANC’s Headstart. “I think [it’s] better if they’ll adjust their office time.”

Fernando said the proposal should be on a “voluntary basis” as this will affect the productivity of companies depending on their operation.

“Some companies may have been doing that by now. And for all we know they’re voluntary basis depending on the kind of operation of the company,” Fernando said.

“The companies that really may not be able may not be as productive doing that. So it has to be on a voluntary basis,” he added.

House Minority Leader Benny Abante Jr. earlier urged private companies to implement a four-day workweek scheme next month to ease traffic flow during the holidays.

Abante suggested private companies maximize the Telecommuting Act, which allows employees to work from home.

READ: Solon urges offices: Enforce 4-day workweek in December

Meanwhile, Malacañang said it will evaluate the proposal like any other recommendation from government agencies.

READ: Malacañang to evaluate 4-day workweek proposal

Edited by MUF