A lawmaker has urged employers to consider going beyond the minimum requirements outlined in the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Advisory No. 17-2022, and provide their workers with additional incentives or benefits amid extreme weather conditions.
“Providing additional incentives or benefits to those who brave the heat to keep our economy running during weather disturbances is fair and shows our commitment to their well-being,” Senator Jinggoy Estrada said in a statement on Monday, April 8.
The chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources noted that under the DOLE advisory, workers may opt not to report for work to avoid the scorching heat, but will not get paid for the day.
The advisory further provides that if an employee fails or refuses to work because of imminent danger that weather disturbances may cause, is free from administrative sanction.
The employee will only be entitled to regular pay when there is a favorable company policy, practice, or collective bargaining agreement granting payment of wages on the said day, or if the employee opts to use
accumulated leave credits.
Estrada said he appreciates the flexibility provided by the advisory but emphasized the importance of ensuring that workers are not “unfairly burdened.”
“We cannot overlook the financial strain that this places on workers. Under the DOLE policy, allowing employees to utilize their accrued leave credits is a step in the right direction. But we must likewise consider those who no longer have sufficient leave balances. In this situation, I urge employers to exercise compassion and understanding during extreme weather conditions,” the lawmaker said.PNA
Photo by Arnold Almacen/CMO
