TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Biliran returns to a regular five-day workweek starting Monday, June 1, ending the compressed four-day work schedule previously implemented as part of energy conservation efforts.
Governor Rogelio Espina issued Executive Order No. 24 directing all provincial government offices, departments, and units to resume the standard Monday-to-Friday schedule, with employees observing the regular eight-hour workday in accordance with civil service rules.
Local government units (LGUs) in Biliran that had adopted the shortened workweek are likewise encouraged to revert to the traditional schedule.
In his order dated May 28, 2026, Espina said the move aims to improve public service delivery, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen coordination with national government agencies and other stakeholders.
The province earlier implemented a four-day workweek beginning March 8, 2026, under Executive Order No. 12, in line with a national policy encouraging energy conservation and flexible work arrangements in government offices.
While the compressed schedule helped reduce energy consumption, provincial officials noted that it also limited public access to government services and created coordination challenges with agencies and private institutions operating on a standard workweek.
“The regular work schedule will enhance responsiveness, improve workflow efficiency, and ensure alignment with the operating schedules of partner agencies and stakeholders,” Espina said in his order.
Despite the return to a five-day workweek, the provincial government emphasized that energy-saving measures will continue to be implemented across offices as part of ongoing efforts to support national energy conservation goals.
Under the new directive, all offices are instructed to maintain practical and cost-efficient energy management practices while ensuring uninterrupted and accessible public service delivery.
Provincial officials said the adjustment reflects a balance between environmental responsibility and the need for consistent, reliable government services for the public.
The four-day workweek was initially adopted as part of efforts to reduce energy consumption in government operations while maintaining essential services. However, after nearly three months of implementation, officials determined that a return to the standard schedule would better support governance efficiency and public convenience.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
