Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla is pushing forward with a study on the proposed four-day workweek for employees of the provincial government, saying the initiative could improve productivity while giving workers more time with their families.
The proposal, currently being assessed by the provincial government, would allow employees to work longer hours for four days instead of the traditional five-day schedule.
Petilla said the idea is still under review but emphasized that the goal is to create a more efficient workplace while supporting employee well-being.
“We want to explore if a four-day workweek can make our offices more productive while also helping employees achieve better work-life balance,” Petilla said in an interview.
“If our workers are happier and less stressed, they can serve the public better.”
The governor explained that the study will examine possible effects on public service delivery, office productivity, and employee satisfaction before any decision is made.
“We cannot implement something like this without careful study,” Petilla said. “Our priority is making sure that government services remain accessible and efficient for the people of Leyte.”
Under a potential arrangement, employees may render extended hours from Monday to Thursday, allowing them to take Friday off.
However, Petilla noted that certain frontline offices may need adjustments to ensure services remain available throughout the week.
“Essential services must continue without disruption,” he said. “We have to make sure the public will not experience delays or inconvenience.”
Petilla also pointed out that several countries and organizations worldwide have experimented with similar work arrangements, reporting improvements in employee morale and productivity.
“If other places have tried it successfully, it’s worth studying how it might work in our own setting,” he added.
Provincial officials said consultations with department heads and employees will be conducted as part of the evaluation process.
Some government workers have welcomed the idea, saying the extra day off could allow them to spend more time with family or attend to personal matters.
“I think it could help employees recharge,” said one provincial staff member who requested anonymity. “If managed properly, it might even make us more focused during working days.”
Petilla assured the public that the provincial government will carefully weigh all factors before making a final decision.
“This is about finding ways to improve how we work while continuing to deliver quality service to the people of Leyte,” the governor said. “We will study it thoroughly before moving forward.”
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