The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reminded employers not to compel workers affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu on September 30 to report for work.
In a radio interview on Friday, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma emphasized the need for compassion from employers, saying that workers’ welfare should take precedence in times of disaster.
“Let us not insist for them (workers) to go to work,” Laguesma said. “There shouldn’t be any disciplinary action for not coming to work or wanting to go home.”
He cited Labor Advisory 17-2022, which protects employees from liability if they fail or refuse to work during weather disturbances and related incidents.
“Although it doesn’t say ‘earthquake’ in the advisory, it is related to weather disturbances and similar events. I see that this earthquake is considered as a similar event,” he explained.
The labor chief further urged employers to extend help to those in need, noting that companies can demonstrate their “corporate social responsibility” during such crises.
He added that employers must always remember: “the safety and health of workers is paramount.”