Flexible Work Arrangements to Support EDSA Rehabilitation
The wider adoption of flexible work arrangements may prove essential to maintaining business operations and protecting employee welfare during the upcoming rehabilitation of EDSA, sources familiar with the matter reveal. As Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare undergoes major infrastructure work, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is encouraging employers to explore alternative work setups, including telecommuting, to minimize disruptions and sustain productivity.
Labor leaders highlight that the COVID-19 pandemic successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of remote work across various industries. Consequently, similar strategies can now help cushion the expected mobility challenges during EDSA’s rehabilitation period. However, they also acknowledge that remote work may not be suitable for all sectors, especially construction and manufacturing.
Customized Work Solutions for Different Industries
Ongoing discussions with employer groups aim to identify flexible work arrangements tailored to specific operational needs. The Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) supports this initiative, advocating for incentive-based programs to encourage businesses to implement such flexible schemes where feasible.
It’s important to recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach will not work effectively. Instead, tripartite consultations involving government officials, employers, and labor representatives are crucial to develop balanced policies that address the needs of all parties involved. These discussions will help craft solutions that promote both business continuity and workers’ rights amid the expected traffic bottlenecks once rehabilitation begins.
Need for Clear Policy Guidance
Officials also stress the necessity of clear policy directives from the highest levels of government to help stakeholders navigate the changing work landscape. The anticipated worsening of the traffic crisis in the National Capital Region further underscores this need.
By promoting flexible work arrangements, the government hopes to reduce commuter congestion and maintain economic activity during this challenging period. As community leaders said, “Ang ganitong mga hakbang ay makakatulong upang hindi maantala ang negosyo at maprotektahan ang mga manggagawa habang isinasagawa ang rehabilitasyon ng EDSA.”
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