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In efforts to conserve energy and reduce fuel consumption amidst the Middle East crisis, DOLE has reminded businesses that arrangements such as compressed workweeks or work-from-home setups can support these goals without compromising on workers’ welfare.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has highlighted flexible work arrangements as a potential strategy for the private sector to ease operational costs amid surging fuel prices driven by the Middle East crisis.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently urged energy conservation and reduced fuel consumption, prompting DOLE to remind businesses that arrangements such as compressed workweeks or work-from-home setups can support these goals without compromising on workers’ welfare.
In line with this, DOLE reiterated that a compressed workweek allows employees to complete the standard 40-hour schedule over four days instead of five, by extending working hours from Monday to Thursday if work is suspended on Friday. Alternatively, under a work-from-home arrangement, employees may work on-site from Monday to Thursday and remotely on Friday, depending on job requirements.
Lennard Constantine C. Serrano, Assistant Secretary and a spokesperson from DOLE stressed that such arrangements must be voluntary and in line with the labour code and occupational safety and health requirements. Agreements should not reduce workers’ benefits.
“Any form of agreement entered into must comply with the labour code, the general labour standards, and the safety and health of the workers stated therein. It should in no case result in the diminution of the benefits of the worker," Assistant Secretary Serrano said.
Alvin B. Curada, Director of Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC) echoed this, noting that mutual agreements must ensure employees continue receiving their usual wages and benefits.
DOLE emphasised that feasibility varies by industry. Mining, agriculture, and manufacturing may face operational challenges in adopting remote or hybrid work.
Director Curada further explained that four-day workweeks remain an option for companies wishing to support energy conservation, but adoption must be carefully considered to maintain productivity and employee welfare.
Employers implementing flexible schedules must report agreements through DOLE’s online compliance portal. Workers with concerns have been encouraged to reach out to DOLE’s regional and provincial offices or call the hotline 1349, open Monday to Friday from 6am to 10pm, for guidance and support.
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