The city government here will observe a shortened work hour to allow employees to spend time with their families on Monday.

“We encouraged all Iloilo City government employees to take this opportunity to reconnect, recharge, and cherish this special time with their loved ones. We believe that we need to uphold values of family, unity, and service in all that we do,” said Joy Fantilaga, spokesperson for Mayor Jerry Treñas, in an interview.

Employees will be sent home at 3 p.m., said Fantilaga.

However, departments and offices providing essential services, such as health services, disaster preparedness, and response, are required to ensure the unimpeded continuity of their operations, she added.

The early dismissal is in line with Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 64, issued by the Office of the President and anchored on Proclamation No. 60, series of 1992, declaring the fourth Monday of September each year as “Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga” Day.

Fantilaga said the transacting public is advised to “adjust their schedules and complete any necessary transactions before the early dismissal time today.”

“For those unable to do so, regular office hours will resume tomorrow,” she added.

Family for healthy community

In Cebu City, acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia on Monday underscored the role of the family in fostering a healthy community.

Garcia issued the statement as the country celebrates the 32nd National Family Week and Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day.

The mayor led the opening of the Family Week celebration with the social welfare service department of the city government in Barangay Talamban.

“Your city government is committed to promoting family values and supporting programs that uplift the well-being of Cebuano families,” Garcia said in his message during the ceremony.

Work in government offices was suspended at 3 p.m. as instructed by Malacanang through Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 64, in observance of National Family Week, to give government workers time to be with their families. (PNA)