MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City government is studying a proposal to offer an early retirement package to qualified city hall employees in the final phase of the salary standardization bill in 2013.

Mayor Herbert Bautista said the plan is geared towards ensuring that the city government will have an aggressive and computer literate workforce.

“We would like to infuse and harness new people into our system of governance to achieve greater public efficiency. What we need are people whose line of specialization are in the field of information technology since the goal is for more of our communication to be paperless and for more of our publics to be able to interact with the city government, from the comfort of their homes or offices,” Bautista added.

City Budget Officer Marian Orayani said city hall employees who are nearing retirement age will be among the first to benefit from the city government’s program.

“If the city finds the proposal feasible, the budget office is willing to provide the needed appropriations,” Orayani said.

She noted that the program would entail additional funding requirements since the city government will also provide payment for social security benefits and other claims of employees who may opt for early retirement.

A city hall employee in her sixties who requested anonymity was receptive to the idea, saying that if she would have her way she will now inquire on the amount of benefits she would receive if she decides to take advantage of the early retirement package.

“I am 60 years old and have been in the government service since I was 21. I don’t want to retire at age 65 and then use my money to pay for my hospital bills or more so lie in bed and be a burden to my family,’’ the employee added.

While feeling fit despite her age, the female employee said “it may be the right time to leave’’ and enjoy the company of her children and grandchildren.