Palace: Firms must provide transport for workers under MECQ

Malacañang stated that workers cannot be held accountable for not reporting to work if employers fail to provide transportation services.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque advised companies to offer shuttle services or nearby accommodations due to the suspension of public transport in Metro Manila and other areas under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

Roque emphasized that companies should not reopen if they do not have their own shuttles or if workers do not have their own cars, as avoiding a second wave of COVID-19 infections is a priority.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez had previously warned that refusing to work could lead to job loss, but this statement seems to be softened by the clarification from Malacañang.

Areas such as Metro Manila, Laguna, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Angeles City, Zambales, and Laguna are under MECQ until May 31.

During MECQ, more businesses can resume operations, social gatherings are limited to five individuals, and government offices can utilize skeleton workforces or work-from-home arrangements.

Limited outdoor recreational activities are permitted, provided that safety measures like wearing face masks and maintaining physical distancing are observed.