Solon pushes for compressed work week

BAGUIO Representative Mark Go recently filed House Bill No. 5068, amending certain provisions of the Labor Code of the Philippines institutionalizing the compressed work week by increasing the normal work hours per day but reducing the work days per week.

Go said the measure will amend the provisions on working conditions under the Labor Code particularly Articles 83, 87 and 91 providing for the normal hours of work, overtime work and rest day.

“The concept of compressed work arrangement refers to alternative arrangements or schedules other than the traditional or standard work hours and work week,” Go said.

“Through this method, the normal work week is reduced to less than six days but the total number of normal work hours per week shall remain at 48 hours,” he explained.

Section 3 of the house bill states work may be performed beyond eight hours a day or forty-eight hours a week, provided that the employee is paid for the overtime work, and additional compensation equivalent to his regular wage plus at least 25 percent thereof. Work performed beyond eight or number of hours under a compressed work schedule on a holiday or rest day will be paid an additional compensation equivalent to the rate of the first eight or numbers of hours under a compressed work week on a holiday or rest day plus at least 30 percent thereof.

“With this proposal, employees are entitled to an additional one or two rest days apart from the given normal rest day depending on the compressed work schedule as determined by the employer,” he uttered.

“This measure takes into account the employers and employees flexibility in fixing hours of work compatible with business requirements and the employees’ need for balanced work-life,” he added.

In conclusion, Go stressed the rationale and objective of a compressed work which is to promote business competitiveness, work efficiency, productivity and employees’ work-life balance. PR