MANILA – Workers affected by the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Cebu on Tuesday night should not be compelled to report for work, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Friday.

In a radio interview, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma urged employers to show compassion and prioritize the welfare of their employees in times of calamity.

“Let us not insist for them (workers) to go to work. There shouldn’t be any disciplinary action for not coming to work or wanting to go home,” Laguesma said.

He cited Labor Advisory No. 17-2022, which provides that employees cannot be penalized for failure or refusal to work during weather disturbances and similar emergencies. “Although it doesn’t specifically mention earthquakes, it is considered a similar event,” he added.

Laguesma also encouraged companies to exercise corporate social responsibility by extending aid to affected workers, stressing that “the safety and health of workers is paramount.” (PNA)