IN a bid to help ease traffic in Metro Manila, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) issued a resolution mandating the adjustment of all Local Government Units (LGUs) working hours from 7AM to 4PM.

Likewise the MMDA is “strongly encouraging” national government agencies in the NCR to adapt to the same modified working schedule.

Under MMDA Resolution No. 24-08, it said that the new working hours will take effect on April 15, 2024.

The MMDA said that due to the persistent traffic congestion in Metro Manila, it “demands innovative solutions for the improvement of commuting conditions and the well-being of the citizens of the National Capital Region.”

MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes said that based on their comprehensive examination on the existing traffic congestion in Metro Manila, it highlighted the need for innovative measures to address the prevailing traffic situation.

He also said that they will be implementing a standardized working schedule for government offices in the Metro, particularly during peak hours, in reducing traffic congestion.

Artes also said that this is based under the authority to adopt flexible working schedules in the government, as under Section 6, Rule XVII of the Omnibus Rules Implementing Book V of the Administrative Code of 1987.

“Working Schedule Adjustment in all offices under the Local Government Units in the National Capital Region. All government offices under the Local Government Units located in the National Capital Region shall adopt a modified working schedule from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM,” the MMDA said.

“In the implementation therefore, the local government units located in the National Capital Region are hereby enjoined to enact their respective ordinances,” it added.

“This Resolution shall take effect on April 15, 2024 and after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation and the filing of three copies thereof with the Office of the National Administrative Register, U.P. Law Center,” the MMDA said.