Senator Raffy Tulfo emphasized the urgent need for the passage of a bill that would provide stronger protection for the rights and welfare of workers in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry.

Tulfo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Labor, said this amid claims that some companies continue to disregard employee safety and well-being in favor of higher profits.

During the committee hearing on January 21, BPO workers who were present raised concerns over the lack of benefits and various violations of their labor rights by the companies they work for.

“Currently, there are 1.82 million Filipinos working in the BPO industry, and they make a significant contribution to our economy—almost on par with the remittances of overseas Filipino workers,” Tulfo said.

“However, unknown to many, the BPO industry is also riddled with complaints and labor law violations,” he added.

One of the primary issues raised by BPO workers involved Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Standards, particularly the lack of adequate HMO or health benefits despite the health hazards associated with their work. According to them, they often end up paying out of pocket during check-ups or emergency cases.

Workers also reported that some companies allegedly prohibit the formation of unions to protect employees’ rights. In some instances, they are allegedly required to sign documents explicitly barring them from forming or joining any organization.

In addition, BPO workers expressed distrust in the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), claiming that the agency tends to side with management. They said that during inspections, DOLE officials do not interview the workers themselves and instead speak only with Human Resources (HR) personnel.

The workers said they are ready to submit documents and evidence to substantiate their allegations of violations and abuse by certain BPO companies.

In response, Tulfo chided DOLE Undersecretary Felipe Egargo Jr., saying the workers’ claims could be verified. Tulfo shared that during several surprise inspections he conducted at factories last year, many workers similarly complained that DOLE officials spoke only with HR representatives and not with the employees themselves —echoing the sentiments of the BPO workers.

“When you conduct inspections, you should not only talk to HR or management. You should talk to the workers and visit them in their actual workplace. Check on their working conditions,” Tulfo said.

Because of these issues, Tulfo reiterated his commitment to vigorously push for the passage of Senate Bill No. 1493, or the “BPO Workers’ Welfare and Protection Act,” until it becomes law. The proposed measure seeks to ensure job security, overtime pay, leave pay, and other mandatory benefits for BPO workers.

The bill also mandates strict compliance with labor standards, including mandatory breaks, rest days, safe and humane working conditions, mandatory health insurance coverage, and the protection of workers’ right to self-organization.