Three state universities based in Negros Occidental have announced shifting to four-day work arrangements starting this week in line with the national government’s energy conservation measures.
In separate notices, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU), Central Philippines State University (CPSU) and State University of Northern Negros (SUNN) said the work schedule adjustments are in compliance with the Memorandum Circular No. 114 issued by the Office of the President.
CHMSU, whose main campus is located in Talisay City, is implementing a temporary four-day workweek starting March 10, with compressed 10-hour shifts, from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday.
“This applies across all four campuses and will continue until officially lifted by the president of the republic. To ensure a smooth transition, all employees will work from home this coming March 13,” it added.
Staff and faculty will report on-campus Monday to Thursday, and all Friday classes will shift to synchronous or asynchronous online delivery, providing hybrid options for students with limited connectivity.
Meanwhile, all Saturday classes, National Service Training Program assignments, community engagements, and scheduled admission exams will proceed as planned to minimize disruption, the notice said.
Starting Monday, CPSU implemented an adjusted office schedule under a compressed four-day workweek for identified offices only at its main campus in Kabankalan City.
Office hours start from 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and end from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday, while offices are closed on Fridays.
“This adjustment supports the government’s initiative on energy conservation and operational efficiency while ensuring the continued delivery of services to students, stakeholders, and the public. We encourage everyone to plan their transactions within the revised office hours,” CPSU administration said.
In Sagay City, SUNN also adopted a temporary four-day work arrangement for administrative and support personnel effective Monday, advising partners and clients to be guided in scheduling transactions and visits to university offices.
Onsite workdays are scheduled Monday to Thursday, while on Friday, work-from-home, offsite, or other flexible work arrangements will be implemented as may be authorized by the university or directed by office heads.
“This arrangement shall remain inforce until lifted or modified by proper authority, subject to further university guidelines,” it added.
The university said they are also introducing “energy conservation measures to help reduce electricity and fuel consumption while ensuring the continuous delivery of essential university services.” (PNA)