MANILA - Navotas City said Friday it will implement a 4-day work week for workers of some of its government offices and affiliated establishments to combat a possible spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Under Memorandum Order No. TMT 2020-0151, concerned employees will work on shifts and will be required to work 10 hours per day for four days, beginning on Monday, March 16.

Mayor Toby Tiangco said the order was meant to ensure social distancing and prevent further infections in Metro Manila, which has confirmed dozens of COVID-19 cases.

“We understand that securing medical assistance and guarantee letters is crucial. In this time of crisis, Navoteños, especially those who have less in life, can rest assured that they will get the help and assistance they need from our government,” he said.

Those included in the work arrangement are employees from the Business Permits and Licensing Office, City Treasurer’s Office, Local Civil Registry, Assessor’s Office, City Planning and Development Office, Franchising Permit Processing Unit and the City Agriculture Office.

Also included are the employees of the Navotas City Hospital, all health centers and lying-in clinics, traffic enforcers and Task Force Disiplina, dog catchers, street sweepers, environmental police and Bantay Dagat, and staff of the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

Navotas offices and workers not covered by the memo will continue with their usual work schedule. These include the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Navotas Action and Command Center, Public Information Office, and Office of the Local Building Official.

Bahay Pag-asa, Housing and Urban Poor Affairs Office, City Environment and Natural Resources Office waste collection services and security services will also continue their normal schedule.