MARIANAS Visitors Authority Managing Director Priscilla M. Iakopo said the board of directors has approved the self-care leave policy proposed by management.
The policy is similar to that implemented by the Commonwealth Ports Authority board last month.
In an interview, Iakopo said MVA’s management saw that CPA’s self-care leave policy, which aims to help employees cope with stress, can also increase productivity and overall job satisfaction.
“We really like the idea that CPA has taken the initiative to push this forward,” she said.
Iakopo said implementing the policy would benefit MVA’s staff who work tirelessly, especially during large community events.
She said MVA employees will be given a chance to take at least a day off to rejuvenate themselves and return to work recharged.
“MVA staff work day in and day out. Whether it’s weekends, evenings, or holidays, we are working,” Iakopo said.
Citing the 22nd Annual Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival and Beer Garden held in August as an example, Iakopo said every MVA employee worked throughout the weekend and reported back to work on Monday.
“There was no day for rest. So, [this self-care leave policy is] just for us to basically give ourselves a rest, mentally and physically, and come back the next day rejuvenated and refreshed,” she said.
When asked about the concern brought up by MVA board member Marian Aldan-Pierce about the additional cost to implement the new policy, Iakopo said it was determined that it wouldn’t be a problem.
“Actually, we did look into that. It’s not an additional expense. We see it as our employees going on leave,” she said.
Priscilla M. Iakopo
