Call Center Safety Under Scrutiny After Cebu Earthquake
A network of business process outsourcing (BPO) employees has formally filed a complaint against 30 call center companies in Cebu province. They allege violations of labor and occupational safety laws during the 6.9-magnitude earthquake on September 30. The BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) – Cebu brought the matter to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), highlighting concerns about workplace safety amid natural disasters.
According to sources involved, the complaint centers on the failure of these firms to implement proper evacuation procedures and safety protocols during the seismic event. Many workers reportedly felt endangered due to inadequate emergency response, raising questions about the companies’ compliance with mandated safety standards.
Details of the Complaint Against Call Centers
Community members noted that the BPO employees experienced confusion and panic as the earthquake struck. Despite the magnitude and risk, officials observed that some call centers delayed evacuation orders and did not provide clear instructions, potentially putting workers at risk.
Local leaders emphasized the importance of enforcing occupational safety laws to protect workers, especially in high-risk areas prone to natural disasters. The complaint calls for a thorough investigation into whether the firms neglected their duty to ensure a safe work environment during the earthquake.
Calls for Strengthened Labor and Safety Regulations
Labor advocates have urged the government to strengthen monitoring and enforcement of workplace safety standards in the BPO sector. They argue that the recent incident reveals gaps in preparedness that could endanger thousands of employees in future emergencies.
Officials reported that DOLE is now reviewing the complaint and may conduct inspections to assess compliance levels among the implicated companies. This move aims to hold call centers accountable and promote safer working conditions across the industry.
Impact on Cebu’s BPO Industry
The BPO sector is a major economic driver in Cebu, employing thousands of workers. Industry insiders warn that unresolved safety issues could affect employee morale and the region’s attractiveness to investors.
Meanwhile, community members expressed hope that this complaint will lead to meaningful reforms. “Dapat seryosohin nila ang kaligtasan ng mga manggagawa,” one worker said, stressing the need for companies to prioritize employee welfare.
For more news and updates on BPO employee safety, visit Filipinokami.com.
