DOLE Appeals to Cebu Firms for Compassion Toward Quake-Hit Employees

In the wake of the powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu on Tuesday night, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has called on employers in the province to demonstrate compassion and understanding toward affected workers.

The quake, whose epicenter was traced to 21 kilometers northeast of Bogo City, has disrupted roadways and damaged structures, leaving many in distress.

Speaking in a radio interview on October 3, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma urged companies to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees. He emphasized that in times of crisis, enforcing strict attendance or penalizing those unable to come to work is neither humane nor consistent with labor policy.

“Employers in Cebu must remember that worker safety and health come first,” Laguesma said. He also reminded firms that they should act not merely as businesses, but in the spirit of corporate social responsibility, by supporting workers rather than forcing them into work during these difficult circumstances.

Laguesma also lamented reports that some employers had threatened disciplinary action against staff who could not report to work due to quake-related difficulties. He urged that no such punitive measures be enforced.

“Let us not insist that employees show up or penalize those who fail to come,” he said. “There should be no disciplinary action for not reporting to work or wanting to go home.”

To reinforce his appeal, the labor chief referenced Labor Advisory 17-2022, which prohibits penalizing employees for not working during weather disturbances and similar emergencies. While the advisory does not explicitly mention earthquakes, Laguesma stated that it applies by extension to circumstances like these.

The earthquake, which rattled northern Cebu, left debris blocking roads and rendered certain passages impassable—hampering rescue, relief, and daily commuting efforts.

In his remarks, the Secretary underscored that workers may face obstacles such as damaged homes, impassable routes, lack of transportation, or the need to attend to family emergencies.

DOLE’s plea to employers is anchored in a broader directive: in times of natural calamities or unexpected disasters, labor policy should lean toward empathy and flexibility rather than rigid enforcement. By doing so, companies not only protect their workforce but also reinforce trust, morale, and dignity during adversity.

As relief operations continue and localities assess damage, many employees are navigating uncertain conditions. DOLE’s message is clear: in these challenging times, compassion and accommodation should guide corporate responses.