TACLOBAN CITY – Several local government units in Eastern Visayas have started shifting to a four-day work week beginning Monday in compliance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive on energy conservation and efficiency.

In Biliran province, Gov. Rogelio Espina announced the transition under Memorandum Circular No. 114, issued by the Office of the President.

"There will be a 10-hour work day for four days a week to still complete 40 hours a week," Espina stated in a Facebook post, urging the public and employees to abide by the new directive.

Naval Mayor Gretchen Espina issued Executive Order No. 36 on Sunday night, advising the public to make official transactions within the new schedule.

"Rest assured, all essential and emergency services – including health, disaster response, public safety, and sanitation – will continue operating without interruption," the Naval local government unit (LGU) said.

Naval is the capital town of Biliran, one of the smallest provinces in the country, composed of eight municipalities.

In Southern Leyte, Maasin City Mayor Luz Mercado adopted the compressed work week through Administrative Order No. 25, citing the need to reduce energy consumption, respond to rising fuel costs, and promote a sustainable government workplace.

In Samar province, Pinabacdao town also adopted the energy conservation directives. Mayor Viannery Mabag said in an executive order that the four-day work week is necessary to support energy conservation efforts while maintaining government efficiency.

The adjusted working hours for these LGUs are Monday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The President ordered the temporary four-day work week for some Executive branch offices on March 6 as part of contingency measures addressing the impact of the ongoing Middle East crisis.

Agencies providing emergency or essential services – such as police, firefighters, and frontline public service offices – are not covered by the directive. (PNA)