The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) has expressed support for the government’s implementation of a compressed work week or four-day work week, citing it as a measure to address the rising cost of fuel and tensions in the Middle East.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, FFW President Atty. Sonny Matula said the group welcomes the arrangement but stressed that workers should not be burdened with extended hours.
He noted that even under the current eight-hour schedule, labor remains heavy, particularly in physically demanding sectors such as construction, mining, and manufacturing.
Matula explained that in government offices, truly productive work often averages only about five hours a day.
Extending working hours, he warned, could lead to stress and fatigue rather than increased productivity. He added that longer daily shifts under a compressed work week may only heighten pressure and health risks for employees.
The labor group therefore urged that if the system is pursued, safeguards must be in place to protect workers’ well-being and prevent excessive workloads.
