DOLE Sec Laguesma: Workers can refuse unsafe work post-earthquake

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma affirmed that workers have the right to refuse unsafe work, especially following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake, and cannot face disciplinary action for justifiable safety concerns.

These statements came amid allegations from the BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN)-Cebu that several BPO firms in the province endangered employees by forcing them to work despite safety risks.

Reported incidents include companies blocking emergency exits, failing to assist during evacuations, ordering employees back to work without safety clearance, and compelling them to save data amidst evacuation.

Workers who left due to fear were allegedly marked absent or issued formal notices, while vulnerable employees were denied adequate protection.

The Institute for Occupational Health and Safety Development (IOHSAD) condemned these practices, stating they violate Republic Act No. 11058, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Law.

IOHSAD executive director Nadia De Leon criticized the firms for prioritizing profit over human life, emphasizing that workers should not have to choose between survival and livelihood.

BIEN-Cebu has filed a complaint with the Department of Labor and Employment - Region 7 (DOLE - RO7), and both local governments have ordered investigations into the alleged unsafe work practices.