But they left the discretion to the private companies.
Amid the ongoing national energy emergency, a number of groups have suggested the implementation of teh work from home setup to reduce fuel consumption and ease the impact of rising oil prices.
Some of those that expresssed their stance on the matter was the BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN Pilipinas), which said the latest spike in global oil prices is straining Filipino workers already struggling with low wages and rising living costs.
In line with that, the Malacañang said last March 27 that it welcomes the suggestions to adopt a work from home setup in the private sector and that the Palace views the proposal as “helpful” but will leave the decision to private companies.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said, “Kung iyan ang magiging panukala ng mga private business companies, makakatulong na malaki ‘yan. Pero siyempre hindi naman didiktahan ng Pangulo ang mga pribadong kumpanya.”
She also stressed that private firms are free to decide what arrangements best suit their operations and workers.
Castro told, “Kung nakikita nila na ito’y makakabuti sa ating bayan, para sa interes ng ating mga kababayan para makatipid din sa fuel o sa produktong petrolyo, maganda ‘yang suggestion.”
Previously, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared the temporary shift to a four-day workweek setup in government offices, except those involved in emergency services, in a bid to lessen fuel and energy consumption amid the supply crunch caused by the Middle East conflict.
In regards to the calls from the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) for a PHP5,000 monthly subsidy for minimum wage workers facing rising fuel prices, the official said no option is “off the table.”
But noted the need to balance priorities and start with sectors most affected by increasing fuel costs. Moreover, she also assured that the government is prepared to assist all sectors as long as the measures fall within the limits of the national budget.
Castro cited ongoing government initiatives for transportation relief, including a 50 percent discount on train fares, free bus rides, and fuel subsidies and financial aid for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators.