Benguet: The capital town of the province of Benguet will return to a five-day workweek effective June 1 to provide better services to the public while still observing energy- and cost-saving efforts. Mayor Roderick Awingan issued Memorandum 178-2026 on May 25, a copy of which was released to the media on Thursday, entitled 'Lifting of the compressed work schedule and directing the continued adoption of the energy efficiency and conservation measures.'

According to Philippines News Agency, in a message on Friday, Awingan stated that the decision to revert to a five-day workweek was driven by demands from the constituents and employees, particularly those in the agricultural industry sector, who require local government assistance on Fridays. The memorandum specifies that standard work hours will resume from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the aim of improving service delivery, coordination among offices, and overall public service.

The directive, targeted at all municipal officials and employees, emphasizes the importance of continuing support for energy-saving and conservation efforts to maintain sustainability in operations. Previously, the local government adopted a four-day work week schedule following a national government directive for energy-saving and cost-cutting measures due to the fuel crisis initiated by the conflict in the Middle East.

Mayor Awingan highlighted the necessity of addressing the diverse needs of the local government's clients, which will be better served with a five-day workweek. He acknowledged the ongoing national energy crisis but stressed the importance of meeting the needs of the public while maintaining energy- and cost-saving measures.