• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The pilot implementation of the flexible work arrangement (FWA) in all Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) offices, including in Negros Island Region, starts today, Jan. 5, until March 27, 2026.
The Environmental Management Bureau-NIR and Provincial Environmental Management Offices are taking part in the FWA, pursuant to DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2025-34, per its advisory Jan. 4.
During the pilot implementation period, full on-site office operations shall be from Monday to Thursday, and a work-from-home (WFH) arrangement every Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
EMB-NIR assures the public that this initiative is designed to enhance operational efficiency while ensuring the continuous and uninterrupted delivery of public and regulatory services, including frontline transactions, it said.
Per DAO 2025-34, “it is the policy of the State to ensure a safe and healthful workplace that supports optimal public service performance. It is, therefore, imperative to implement measures that address risk factors affecting employee health, wellness, and productivity, while promoting the efficient use of office resources, including the reduction of energy consumption, in support of sustainable government operations.”
These FWA shall apply to all DENR offices nationwide and cover employees and contract of service personnel. “However, offices that require on-site reporting of personnel seven days a week, such as animal keepers and similar functions, shall not be covered by the implementation of the pilot run.” | CGC
