MANILA, PHILIPPINES – In a report by the Inquirer, labor groups BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) and Federation of Free Workers (FFW) are urging the government and employers to adopt flexible work arrangements amid the oil price hikes caused by the conflict in the Middle East.
Expanded WFH, Says BIEN
BIEN proposes the immediate implementation of a WFH setup for BPO employees whose tasks can be done remotely, as this is the “fastest and most practical way to shield [them] from the rising cost of daily commuting.”
They explain, “As the fuel prices rise, the effects quickly spread across the economy through higher transport fares, food prices, electricity costs, and other basic goods. For many workers who rely on daily commuting and fixed wages, another oil price surge quickly translates into tighter household budgets and difficult trade-offs.”
4-Day Workweek, Says FFW
FFW states that it would support the adoption of flexible working arrangements, including a four-day workweek, provided they are worker-centered. This means employees would experience no wage cuts, unpaid overtime, or forced arrangements from their employers.
The labor group also proposes these benefits:
- WFH employees should still have data privacy, occupational safety and health, and the right to disconnect.
- Non-WFH employees (whose tasks can’t be done remotely) should be granted a transport or energy allowance.
