Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma has ordered an investigation into 98 business process outsourcing (BPO) companies accused of compelling employees to work despite dangerous conditions brought by Super Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong).
According to the BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN Philippines), many workers were forced to report on-site despite widespread flooding, hazardous travel, and power outages, with those unable to comply allegedly receiving “notice to explain” (NTE) memos or being pressured to use leave credits.
Laguesma said he directed DOLE regional directors to summon company management to explain their side before deciding on the next course of action.
BIEN national president Mylene Cabalona noted that while some firms provided shuttle services, free meals, or temporary shelter, she described these as “token measures” that prioritized operations over employee safety.
Most of the BPO companies under investigation are located in Metro Manila, while others operate in Bacolod, Cebu, Lipa, Sta. Rosa, Meycauayan, Clark, and Baguio.
BIEN urged DOLE to ensure that employee safety is prioritized and that workers are not penalized or forced to use leave credits if unable to report to work due to severe weather.