In a bid to ease traffic congestion across Metro Manila, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has proposed adjusting the working hours of national government offices. The proposed schedule, shifting from the current 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to a 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. arrangement, is now under consideration by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
According to the MMDA, the adjusted hours, implemented for local government unit (LGU) employees since May 2024, have shown a “minimal improvement” in traffic conditions. The agency presented its findings during a Metro Manila Council (MMC) meeting on Monday, with the council expressing support for expanding the program to national government offices.
Study Shows Reduced Travel Time and Increased Speed
The MMDA’s study revealed that the modified work hours effectively distributed traffic volume during peak periods. Morning congestion, typically occurring between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., and evening traffic, peaking between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., became less concentrated under the new schedule.
San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, who chairs the MMC, and Pasay Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano backed the proposal, citing the study’s findings.
Key insights from the MMDA’s report include:
- A 10.2% decrease in travel time near city and municipal halls.
- A 20.7% increase in travel speed in these areas.
While improvements were described as “minimal,” the MMDA emphasized that extending the revised work hours to national government offices could yield broader benefits by reducing private vehicle traffic during peak hours.
Impact on Traffic Volume and Public Transport
The MMDA noted that approximately 473,533 workers employed in national government offices across Metro Manila contribute significantly to daily traffic congestion. Adjusting their schedules could reduce private vehicle usage during peak hours by an estimated 37.15%, alleviating pressure on major thoroughfares.
For government employees who rely on public transportation, the earlier schedule would allow them to travel before the traditional rush hour when private-sector employees typically commute.
“This adjustment will create a more staggered flow of commuters, resulting in less overcrowding on public transport systems,” the MMDA explained.
Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders
While local government leaders welcomed the proposal, some critics question whether the change would significantly alleviate Metro Manila’s chronic traffic woes. Private-sector commuters expressed concern about whether their schedules would also need adjustment to complement the plan.
“It’s a good step, but will it be enough to solve the bigger problem of traffic congestion?” asked Karen Santos, a Quezon City resident.
Transport advocacy groups also urged the government to consider long-term solutions, such as improving public transportation infrastructure and addressing the increasing number of private vehicles on the road.
Next Steps
The MMC will formally submit the MMDA’s proposal to President Marcos for approval. If implemented, national government offices could begin following the new work schedule later this year.
The MMDA remains optimistic that the adjustment will positively impact Metro Manila’s traffic situation, even if the initial results are described as “minimal.”
“We’re looking at incremental progress. It’s not an overnight solution, but it’s a step in the right direction,” the MMDA said.
As Metro Manila continues to grapple with worsening traffic congestion, all eyes are now on Malacañang for the final decision on this potentially transformative proposal.