BARMM lawmakers propose flexible working hours during Ramadan

COTABATO CITY — To accommodate the religious practices of Muslim officials and employees, Bangsamoro lawmakers have proposed flexible working hours during Ramadan.

Parliament Bill No. 298 seeks to ensure that Bangsamoro government workers can observe Ramadan without compromising their work responsibilities.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, is a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection.

Under the proposed measure, Muslim officials and employees in all departments, bureaus, agencies, local government units, government-owned or controlled corporations, and state universities and colleges within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will be entitled to flextime during Ramadan.

The bill suggests a standard flextime from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with provisions to maintain the exigency of government service.

However, offices with functions not suitable for this standard flextime may adopt alternative arrangements to maintain the effectiveness and efficiency of public service.

The bill is authored by Members of Parliament Jamel Macacua, Eddie Alih, and Dr. Kadil Sinolinding, Jr.

MPs Susana Anayatin, Abdulaziz Amenoden, Mohammad Kelie Antao, Dan Asnawie, Suharto Esmael, Abdullah Hashim, Rasul Ismael, Alkabil Jakiri, Don Mustapha Loong, Michael Midtimbang, Tawakal Midtimbang, Nurredha Misuari, and Nabila Margarita Pangandaman are co-authors. (LTAIS-Public Information, Publication, and Media Relations Division)