Private Firms Urged to Adopt 4-Day Workweek
Senator Francis Escudero is calling on the Philippine private sector to adopt a four-day onsite workweek or staggered hours. This proposal follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s recent implementation of a compressed workweek for executive branch offices starting March 9, 2026, aimed at mitigating rising energy costs and fuel price hikes linked to Middle East tensions.
Addressing the Economic Impact of Traffic
The push for flexible work arrangements is not just about fuel; it is a strategic move to combat the staggering economic drain caused by Metro Manila's traffic. Citing data from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Escudero highlighted that:
Daily Loss: ₱3.5 billion is lost daily due to congestion.
Monthly Loss: Approximately ₱105 billion.
Annual Loss: Over ₱1.27 trillion.
Future Projection: Without intervention, daily losses could reach ₱5.4 billion by 2035.
Focus on Major Business Districts
The Senator specifically urged companies in Makati and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to lead the transition. As these areas experience the highest traffic volumes, mobility-oriented workplace reforms here would yield the most significant national savings and reduce the burden on the commuting workforce.
Collaborative Mobility Strategies
Beyond shifting schedules, the proposal encourages local government units (LGUs) to collaborate with employers on:
Synchronized Staggered Schedules: Distributing commute times to flatten traffic peaks.
Infrastructure Improvements: Enhancing pedestrian access and creating safer cycling routes.
Community Action: Encouraging carpooling and energy-efficient practices at home.
By acting early, Escudero believes the Philippines can strengthen its economic resilience against global volatile energy markets while improving the quality of life for millions of Filipino employees.