DOLE: Employers cannot penalize workers for not reporting due to transport suspension

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) clarified that employees cannot be penalized by their employers for not reporting to work due to the suspension of public transportation amid the enhanced community quarantine.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III stated that workers are excused from work under these circumstances and employers should not penalize them for being unable to commute.

Workers who are unable to report for work because of transportation issues are permitted not to go to work.

President Duterte had earlier announced limitations to skeletal workforces and work-from-home schemes for both public and private sectors during the quarantine period.

Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo assured workers that the Palace would communicate with their employers on their behalf regarding their absence.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is utilizing military vehicles to assist stranded commuters, particularly health workers who are considered frontliners in combating COVID-19.

The public is urged to cooperate with the quarantine measures and stay at home to help mitigate the effects of COVID-19 and save lives.