MMDA recommends adjusted work hours for NCR agencies

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is recommending that all national government agencies in the National Capital Region adopt adjusted working hours from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to ease traffic congestion.

Chairman Romando Artes stated during a press conference following a meeting with the Metro Manila Council at MMDA headquarters that implementing these hours could significantly reduce peak-hour traffic and improve public transport conditions, and he will propose this schedule to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. after getting consensus from local governments.

The recommendation is based on a survey showing positive effects in areas where similar policies were implemented, with nearly 400,000 national government workers expected to avoid rush hour if the measure is adopted.

Metro Manila Council president and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora supported the proposal, emphasizing that being an hour ahead of peak times can help reduce congestion.

Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano also favored the adjustment but noted some employees would still need to work traditional hours due to service requirements.