Senator Erwin Tulfo on Sunday, March 29 called on the government and private companies to implement a work-from-home and ride-sharing mechanisms to help workers cope with the impact of the continuous rise in fuel prices.

Senator Erwin Tulfo (Senate PRIB photo)

Tulfo said private companies may opt to implement the work-from-home scheme in order to help save energy.

 “If a worker’s physical presence or activity is not required at the workplace, why not just have them report online?” Tulfo pointed out.

“For instance, those in office roles like planning, research, admin, customer service, and other similar jobs can work from home,” he said.

Tulfo pointed this was already implemented during the pandemic and was proven effective, noting that even student instruction during the COVID-19 era was conducted online.

“Even medical consultations and check-ups were done online by doctors during the pandemic. Why not do it again now?” the senator asked.

He also said companies can help employees defray transportation costs by carpooling.

“If physical presence is required, such as in manufacturing, hotels, restaurants, or hospitals, colleagues can carpool in one vehicle and split the gas costs,” the lawmaker added.

Office workers can also book through ride-hailing apps and share the transport fare.

“I’ve noticed that the number of stranded passengers on the streets seems to be increasing these days because fewer PUVs (Public Utility Vehicles) are operating due to the high cost of fuel,” Tulfo noted.

“With these steps that we have tried before, workers will be able to save,” the lawmaker stressed.