Sen Gatchalian pushes flexible work policies for youth

On Sunday, June 29, 2025, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian urged both the government and private sector to implement flexible working arrangements for young Filipino employees.

Gatchalian emphasized that remote work setups are increasingly preferred by younger workers and called on the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) to adopt stronger policies supporting digital workers, including freelancers.

The senator stressed the need for targeted skills training to prepare Filipinos for emerging digital roles, warning that failing to adapt could lead young workers to seek opportunities abroad or employers more aligned with their needs.

Upwork listed the Philippines among five countries with a high supply of virtual assistants, highlighting the importance of remote work in attracting foreign employers.

Gatchalian urged everyone to keep pace with evolving workplace trends to ensure higher productivity and a promising future for Filipino workers.

The Telecommuting Act, which institutionalizes telecommuting on a voluntary basis, was mentioned as an existing policy that supports alternative workplaces.

Proposed legislation aimed at protecting freelancers is expected to be reintroduced in the 20th Congress following its introduction during the previous session.