Mandaue City's Friday Work-From-Home Initiative Causes Confusion and Delays for Residents
On Friday, April 17, 2026, numerous residents of Mandaue City arrived at the City Hall only to find several key offices unstaffed, leading to significant disruptions in their important transactions. This marked the inaugural day of the city government's newly implemented Friday work-from-home arrangement, which left many citizens frustrated and inconvenienced.
Residents Face Financial and Logistical Hurdles Due to Unavailable Services
One of the affected individuals was Anelie Soronio, who visited the City Hall to obtain a mayor's permit required for her employment. However, she was informed by a security guard that the office she needed was empty. "I approached the guard and explained that I needed to enter, but I was told there was no one there," Soronio recounted.
She expressed frustration over the wasted transportation costs and effort, noting she would have to return on another day, especially given the current economic challenges. "I urgently need the permit for my job because we cannot work without it. If I had known the office would be unstaffed, I wouldn't have come since we live far away. The fare is expensive, and I've already incurred significant expenses just getting here," she added.
Another resident, Rebecca Tanjay, failed to complete her transaction after discovering that some offices were non-operational under the new setup. "I managed to get my community tax certificate (cedula), but I need to return to pay my taxes," Tanjay stated. She admitted forgetting that Friday was part of the work-from-home arrangement.
City Administration Clarifies Policy Amidst Growing Complaints
Despite the inconvenience, Tanjay acknowledged understanding the city's decision, particularly due to weather conditions and economic challenges. "I comprehend the work-from-home setup because we are all affected by the situation, whether rich or poor. At the very least, employees can save on transportation costs," she remarked.
In response to the complaints, Mandaue City Administrator Atty. Gonzalo Malig-on explained that they anticipated confusion since this was the first day of the change. "Currently, we are circulating through the offices and informing the public that some offices are operating with a skeletal staff," Malig-on clarified.
He emphasized that the city has not implemented a "four-day workweek," contrary to some residents' beliefs. "This remains a five-day workweek. On Fridays, employees whose jobs involve reporting can work from home. However, offices and services that require personnel at City Hall must have staff present," he detailed.
Monitoring and Assessment Measures in Place for Remote Work
Malig-on further noted that department heads have been instructed to monitor the work of employees on remote duty, who are required to submit accomplishment reports every Monday. "We have provided departments with templates and checklists for reports. This is not a 'day off.' Employees working from home must still complete their tasks, and their reports will serve as the basis for payroll," he elaborated.
The city government is currently assessing how offices managed the first Friday under this new setup and expects to gather feedback by Monday, April 20, 2026. This evaluation aims to refine the arrangement and minimize future disruptions for residents seeking essential services.
