Capitol bans radios during office hours

The Capitol has warned employees against listening to FM and AM radio stations during office hours.

In a memorandum dated May 31, provincial administrator Eduardo Habin said listening to radio stations during office hours is affecting the quality and productivity of several departments.

“Listening to radio commentaries during work hours, which has been tolerated up until now, has been found to unduly distract attention from work and tasks, thus, subtracting from productive man-hours,” Habin said.

In the same memorandum, all devices that can play music are also prohibited during office hours.

“Listening to radio and other music-playing devices and listening to radio commentaries are hereby strictly banned during work periods at the workplace,” Habin added.

All department heads were also directed to implement the memorandum and report employees refusing to comply with the order to the office of Habin.

However, a provincial capitol male employee who asked for anonymity criticized the new policy.

“Akong duda dili sila ganahan maninaw ilabi na kon ang governor maoy birahan sa radio,” the employee said.

dyAB Arangkada host Leo Lastimosa has been criticizing Governor Gwen Garcia regarding the delay in the accounting of the controversial Cebu International Convention Center.

KBP Cebu president Edward Abad said although he respects the policy of the Capitol, the memorandum curtails the employees right to information.

“Importante sab unta masayod ang mga employees sa mga paghitabo sa ilang palibot,” Abad said.

Last May 30, Habin also issued a memorandum about the wearing of appropriate shoes at the workplace.

In the said memorandum, all female capitol employees are prohibited from wearing sandals and step-ins at the workplace.  Only closed shoes with at least one-inch heels are allowed.

Male employees are also directed to wear appropriate leather shoes together and barong.

Habin also ordered CSU and security personnel not to allow employees not to punch their time cards if they violate the said memorandum.

Last Monday,  Garcia hired consultant Hippocrates Rocina to handle matters on performance management, employee management and decorum.

Garcia said that her administration will be more concerned with workers’ efficiency.  — Ramil V. Ayuman with Garry B. Lao/BRP