Workers can’t be blamed if employers did not provide transport services —Palace

Workers cannot be blamed if they refuse to report for work because their employers did not provide transport services, Malacañang said Monday.

In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said companies should provide shuttle services or near-site accommodations for employees given that public transport remains suspended in Metro Manila and other areas under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

“Kung wala po talaga silang masasakyan, I don’t think that can be taken against the employee,” he said.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez earlier said an employee who refuses to work runs the risk of losing his or her job. However, Lopez said the employers and employees should find ways to address the problem of lack of public transport. 

Metro Manila, Laguna, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Angeles City, Zambales and Laguna will be under MECQ until May 31 unless earlier lifted or extended by the government.

Under the MECQ, more business establishments will be allowed to reopen, gatherings will be limited to five people and government offices may implement skeleton workforce or work from home arrangements.

Limited outdoor exercises such as walking, jogging and biking will be allowed but safety protocols such as wearing of face masks and observing the two-meter physical distancing rule must be followed.

Schools will remain closed. —LDF, GMA News