BPO workers to employers: Be considerate

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – A group of employees in the business process outsourcing industry called on their companies to consider their safety as the storm-enhanced southwest monsoon continue to flood the cities of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

The BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) recalled how some employers required their staff to report to work despite the devastation and massive flooding brought about by 8-day monsoon rains in 2012.

“BIEN Philippines understands the nature of call center where it needs to meet the demand of clients especially for phone banking, customer service and technical support accounts, but companies should be more considerate to their employees’ safety and welfare amidst massive flooding and heavy rains,” the group said in a statement to media.

BIEN also asked the Information Technology and Business Processing Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) to remind member companies to implement standard industry practices that will ensure the welfare of their employees.

The group suggested that companies allow BPO workers to avail of their emergency leave without any sanctions.

They also lauded the practice of allowing employees to stay in their offices, as well as given free food, if travel is no longer possible.

Earlier, the IBPAP said it will be “business as usual” for BPO companies because of their “standard business continuity programs” which include sleeping quarters and food for storm-affected employees.

BIEN spokesperson Ian Porquia urged BPO agents to report companies who give out sanctions against employees who cannot report to work because of inclement weather. Porquia said they can contact the group through their hotline 09182182678, email [email protected] or Twitter account @BIENPhilippines. BIEN said they will call the attention of the IBPAP for immediate action.