The IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding worker welfare and compliance with labor laws following recent confusion over work suspension policies during Typhoon Uwan and the Cebu earthquake.
In a statement, IBPAP stressed that all member companies operated “within the bounds of existing DOLE regulations, circulars, and labor advisories,” even amid extraordinary events such as typhoons or natural calamities.
The clarification comes after reports that some IT-BPM firms in Cebu allegedly required employees to report for work despite the earthquake and subsequent safety advisories — an issue that briefly caused friction between the industry group and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
Both sides have since met to clarify guidelines and reaffirm their coordination.
IBPAP said that its member companies implemented their respective business continuity plans to ensure both employee safety and uninterrupted operations for global clients.
The organization cited the Memorandum Circular from the Office of the President, which left work suspension decisions in the private sector to the discretion of employers.
“Guided by this directive, IBPAP member companies continued operations as their global clients expected of them, doing much more than ‘business as usual’ for their employees,” the group said.
“Management discretion always placed primacy on the health and safety of employees and went beyond standard company processes and practices under normal conditions.”
During the typhoon, IBPAP noted that employees who reported onsite were given additional benefits and conveniences, while others were allowed to work remotely depending on local conditions.
IBPAP added that it has long championed telecommuting and flexible work arrangements, having lobbied for such measures since 2021.
The group said this advocacy continues through ongoing engagement with DOLE secretary Bienvenido Laguesma and other government officials, underscoring its “shared commitment to protect workers while sustaining the country’s global competitiveness.”
The association reiterated that its members welcome DOLE inspections to demonstrate compliance with labor standards, particularly in ensuring worker safety and fair treatment during emergencies.
“Worker welfare remains at the heart of this industry,” IBPAP said, emphasizing that safety and compliance go hand in hand with operational resilience.
IBPAP added that it continues to work closely with DOLE and other government partners “to ensure clear, fair, and fact-based communication that strengthens both employee protection and investor confidence.”
