The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) clarified that no official proposal or recommendation has been submitted to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. regarding the adjustment of work hours for national government agencies (NGAs) in Metro Manila to help ease traffic congestion on major thoroughfares.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH's Dos Por Dos on Tuesday, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said that multiple steps need to be completed before an official report can be presented to the President.
"Linawin ko lang din po. Wala pa po ‘yung actual na proposal, rekomendasyon, o report sa ating Pangulo," said Artes.
"Kasi noon pong ating presentation sa Metro Manila Council, akin pong sinabi na magko-collate pa tayo ng data from the LGUs mismo at lalong-lalo na ‘yung experience ng kanilang mga empleyado, at ganoon din po ng mga transacting public, at ico-collate po natin ‘yung data na ‘yan pati ‘yung mga rekomendasyon ng mga mayors, bago po tayo mag-submit ng ating report sa Pangulo," he added.
Artes noted that recommending the adjustment of the work schedule from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. would significantly help alleviate the traffic congestion faced by motorists and the traveling public.
MMDA's study reveals that 40% of national government agency employees own private vehicles or motorcycles, significantly contributing to traffic congestion on the country’s main roads.
Furthermore, the MMDA reports that there are 184 regional offices based outside NCR but operating within Metro Manila.
Artes explained that the agency's research on the subject will take 2 to 3 months to finalize, in order to submit a detailed and comprehensive report.
In April of the previous year, the local government units (LGUs) of Metro Manila adopted a work schedule from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"Ongoing naman na po sa mga local government units ‘yung 7-4 pm at kaya po nakita namin may epekto, although doon lang sa area ng city hall," Artes stated.
"Kasi nga ang implementation ay sa local government units lamang at mas marami po ‘yung mga kawani ng national government agencies na nandito sa Metro Manila," he added.
Based on the agency's study, traffic flow improved by 10-17% in areas under the LGUs. However, Artes explained that most employees and individuals conducting transactions within the LGUs are typically based within the same area.
"Kung may malayo mang empleyado, nakatira sa malayo, ay kaunti lang po. Kaya po siguro hindi ganoon kalaki ‘yung impact ng pagbilis," Artes said.
Artes expressed optimism that once the new work schedule for national government agencies is implemented, employees will eventually adjust, resulting in easier and faster commutes home.
