In Manila, Senator Erwin Tulfo has urged the government and private sector to revive work-from-home (WFH) arrangements to help employees cope with mounting transportation costs from rising pump prices. Business groups expressed openness to WFH but noted that not all enterprises can implement it.
MANILA, Philippines — With pump prices continuing to rise, Senator Erwin Tulfo has called on the government and private sector to reinstate work-from-home (WFH) arrangements, which proved effective during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"If a worker’s physical presence or activity is not required at the workplace, why not just have them report online?" Tulfo said. He added that office roles such as planning, research, admin, and customer service could shift to remote work.
Tulfo noted the visible impacts during rush hours, with increasing numbers of stranded passengers as fewer public utility vehicles (PUVs) operate due to high fuel costs.
For sectors unable to adopt WFH, like manufacturing, hospitality, food service, and on-site health care, he encouraged alternative commuting options such as ride-sharing to ease daily budgets.
Malacañang stated it would leave WFH decisions to private businesses amid the national energy emergency. Business groups voiced openness but stressed limitations for some enterprises.
