Law Summary

Purpose and Authority

• Explanation: This Executive Order aims to enhance efficiency within government services by establishing standardized office hours.
• Authority: Issued by Manuel L. Quezon, President of the Philippines, under the authority granted by sections 562 and 564 of the Administrative Code, based on the recommendation of the Commissioner of Civil Service.

Prescribed Office Hours

• Explanation: The order sets specific office hours for all government bureaus and offices.
• Key Details:
  • Regular office hours are from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
  • On Saturdays and during the hot season (April 1 to June 15), office hours are reduced to a continuous five-hour workday from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
  • In Baguio City, the shortened hours apply from July 1 to September 15.

Discretionary Authority

• Explanation: Heads of departments, bureaus, or offices have discretion regarding the application of reduced working hours.
• Important Requirements:
  • They are not mandated to reduce labor hours but must consider the service requirements.
  • Any change in hours based on the nature of work requires prior approval from the President.

Overtime Work Regulations

• Explanation: Conditions for overtime work are specified, particularly for tasks that are non-routine and must be completed within a specific timeframe.
• Key Details:
  • Overtime work will only be compensated after the completion of eight hours of regular work.
  • Authorization for overtime payment is provided under section 7(a)(32) of Commonwealth Act No. 246.

Amendments to Civil Service Rules

• Explanation: This Executive Order modifies the existing Civil Service Rules.
• Details:
  • Specifically amends Section 1, Rule XV, of the Civil Service Rules as stated in Executive Order No. 5 (January 9, 1909) and amended by Executive Order No. 26 (August 24, 1926).

Effective Date

• Timeframe: The order shall take effect on October 1, 1939.

Key Takeaways

• The Executive Order standardizes office hours for government offices to optimize service efficiency.
• Reduced hours are specifically outlined for certain periods, with flexibility granted to department heads.
• Overtime work regulations stipulate that compensation is contingent upon completing a standard workday.
• The Executive Order amends existing Civil Service Rules, indicating a formal adjustment to the administrative framework.