Guimaras weighs hybrid work, subsidies amid rising fuel costs

By Mariela Angella Oladive

GUIMARAS — The provincial government is considering several energy-saving measures for Capitol offices following a national directive to conserve power, with options including a compressed four-day workweek or a hybrid work-from-home arrangement.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier announced the implementation of a temporary four-day workweek in some government offices starting March 9 amid rising global oil prices linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The conflict has triggered increases in fuel prices in the Philippines, affecting transportation and operational costs across various sectors.

In an interview on March 7 on the sidelines of the 5150 Triathlon, Gov. Ma. Lucille L. Nava said the Capitol is set to craft internal guidelines before implementing any changes in work arrangements for provincial government employees.

Among the options being considered are a compressed four-day workweek with extended working hours or maintaining the regular five-day schedule while allowing some employees to work from home.

According to Nava, the provincial government will still study the most effective setup and coordinate with local government units across Guimaras before finalizing the policy.

“We will strategize how to implement it, but definitely at the municipal level we will have to talk first,” she said.

Fiber boats are the primary mode of sea transport between Guimaras and Iloilo City, ferrying commuters, students, and workers daily across the Iloilo Strait.

The provincial government is also set to open discussions with boat operators should they propose an increase in fiber boat fares, as transport operators continue to face higher fuel costs.

“Last time they proposed, we wrote an opposition letter so it did not take effect, but now we will have to sit down first for proper communication,” she said.

The governor emphasized that any decision will prioritize the welfare of the riding public while also considering the concerns of transport operators.

“Whatever we do, it will be for the good of the general public. We will meet halfway with the operators so they will not be too burdened,” she stressed.

She added that the provincial government is also exploring the possibility of providing subsidies to operators to help offset operational costs, depending on the availability of provincial funds.