To address fuel crisis, flexible work arrangements, carpooling pushed in Cebu City

Local

CITING rising fuel costs driven by global tensions, Councilor Edgardo “Jaypee” Labella is pushing to ease the burden on workers while also reducing traffic congestion.

He has advocated for measures encouraging flexible work arrangements and carpooling to help cut commuting costs and improve traffic flow.

The Cebu City Council approved a resolution this week urging private sector establishments to consider adopting alternative work setups, such as work-from-home arrangements and compressed four-day workweeks, when feasible and mutually agreed upon by employers and employees.

Labella, in his resolution, said surging fuel prices, linked to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, have increased daily transportation expenses for workers, particularly those commuting to and from their workplaces.

He cited provisions of Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, which mandate local government units to promote the general welfare, including economic prosperity, social justice, and the comfort and convenience of residents.

“Flexible or alternative work arrangements, including work-from-home setups and compressed work schedules such as a four-day workweek, can help reduce the need for daily commuting and contribute to fuel conservation,” the resolution stated.

The resolution also referenced advisories from the Department of Labor and Employment. It noted that flexible work arrangements are allowed under existing rules, provided these are voluntarily agreed upon by both employers and workers.

Labella pointed to the Provincial Government of Cebu’s adoption of a four-day workweek as a model, saying similar approaches could help reduce fuel consumption and energy use while offering relief to employees.

Beyond flexible work setups, Labella also proposed a separate resolution encouraging offices, businesses, and schools in Cebu City to implement voluntary carpooling programs.

He said carpooling, where individuals share rides to common destinations, offers a practical and cost-effective way to cut fuel consumption and transportation expenses, while also reducing the number of vehicles on the road.

“Promoting carpooling initiatives encourages responsible fuel use and collective participation in addressing the impact of rising fuel prices,” the resolution stated.

The proposed measure highlights how carpooling could help ease traffic congestion and contribute to environmental sustainability, particularly in a highly urbanized city like Cebu.

Both measures are non-binding and serve as policy recommendations aimed at encouraging private sector participation in mitigating the effects of rising fuel prices.(TGP)