Cebu City Hall Takes Cautious Approach to National 4-Day Workweek Policy
Cebu City Hall has announced it will not immediately adopt the four-day workweek recently mandated by the national government, choosing instead to closely monitor the policy's impact on other local government units (LGUs) before making a final decision. Mayor Nestor Archival emphasized that the city is conducting a thorough study of the potential effects of this setup on municipal operations and employees.
Business Community Expresses Reservations
Mayor Archival revealed that he has already consulted with members of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where some expressed concerns or doubts about the proposed shorter workweek. "There are several chamber members who are not in favor of this setup, but we are still considering it," Archival stated. He has directed all department heads within the city government to submit their recommendations regarding the possible impacts on workflow and productivity.
Potential Adjustments and Operational Changes
If the four-day workweek is eventually implemented, Archival indicated that work hours would likely be extended to compensate for the reduced days. This could mean shifts starting at 8 a.m. and ending in the evening to complete the required number of working hours. However, he clarified that certain essential offices would remain open even under the new schedule to ensure continuous public service.
Monitoring Other LGUs and National Context
Currently, Cebu City is rigorously monitoring the experiences of other LGUs that have already adopted the policy to inform its decision-making process. This local deliberation follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s announcement on Friday, March 9, 2026, that executive department offices would temporarily transition to a four-day workweek as part of national efforts to conserve energy amid ongoing Middle East conflicts.
Energy-Saving Measures to Be Implemented
In alignment with the national goal to reduce crude oil and electricity consumption, Mayor Archival confirmed that the city government will enforce energy-saving measures across all government offices. These steps aim to support broader environmental and economic objectives while the workweek policy is under review.
