Philippine labor group claims workers’ struggle led to expanded remote work cap

The BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) has claimed that the Philippine government’s decision to allow up to 90% work-from-home (WFH) arrangements in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector was driven by sustained pressure from workers amid a worsening energy crisis.

Framing the policy shift as a labor victory, BIEN said the expanded WFH cap was not a voluntary concession but the outcome of collective action by employees seeking relief from rising costs and operational challenges.

“This is not a gift from above. This is a victory won through the collective pressure and resistance of BPO workers,” said BIEN Secretary General Renso Bajala. “In the middle of the crisis, workers proved that when we fight together, both government and corporations are forced to concede.”

However, the labor group stressed that the measure remains a temporary and limited concession unless accompanied by concrete economic support for employees. It argued that while companies benefit from reduced operational expenses, workers shoulder increased costs associated with remote work.

“WFH is not free. While companies cut costs, workers absorb rising expenses for electricity, internet, and home office needs,” Bajala said. “There must be additional allowances for WFH. We refuse to subsidise corporate profits with our own wages.”

BIEN also warned member companies of the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) against using return-to-office (RTO) policies as a tool for constructive dismissal, cautioning employers against practices such as forced transfers, floating status, and arbitrary terminations.

“We are warning IBPAP member companies. Do not weaponise return-to-office policies to force workers out,” Bajala said. “We know these tactics. Floating status, forced transfers, and arbitrary terminations. If you do this, we will expose you.”

The organisation urged BPO employees to report cases of harassment, coercion, and illegal dismissal, emphasizing the importance of workplace organising to safeguard labor rights.

“To all BPO workers, report cases of harassment, coercion, and illegal dismissal to BIEN. The answer to repression is organisation,” Bajala added.

BIEN further challenged IBPAP to translate industry-government collaboration into tangible gains for workers, including WFH allowances, labor protections, and a living wage.

“If IBPAP is serious about industry-government collaboration, then prove it through real benefits—WFH allowances, protections, and most importantly, a living wage,” Bajala said. “The industry continues to grow, but workers remain trapped in wages that cannot sustain a decent life. This must change.”

No immediate response from government authorities or IBPAP was available at the time of publication. The development highlights ongoing tensions within the Philippines’ booming BPO sector as labor groups push for equitable policies that balance business growth with worker welfare.