Baldoz issues pay advisory for private sector workers on inclement weather

Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz and President Benigno Aquino III. Photo courtesy of Malacanang Photo Bureau.

MANILA — Owing to the inclement weather that led to the suspension of work Friday, 19 September 2014, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said private sector employers should follow the guidelines on pay for such occurrence.

In a labor advisory she issued, also Friday, Baldoz said:”All private sector employers are advised to follow the applicable pay rules on suspension of work due to Typhoon “Mario” on September 19, 2014.

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The labor and employment chief said that if employees did not report for work on the day work was suspended, they will receive no pay unless there is a favorable company policy, practice or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment of wages on said day.

However, if the employee has accrued leave credits, he or she maybe allowed to utilize such leave so that he or she will have compensation on this day.

If the employee went to work on this day, he or she will not receive additional pay, but only their salary on said day.

The labor advisory urged all employers to ensure the safety of their employees by providing free transportation, personal protective equipment, and first-aid medicines, as may be necessary during the suspended work day.

“To alleviate the plight of employees in times of crisis, the employers may provide such extra incentives or benefits to employees who reported for work,” Baldoz said, adding:

“Voluntary compliance with general labor standards, such as the pay rules applicable in times of calamities or natural disasters boosts the morale of workers and encourages productivity, which is good for business,” she stressed.