MANILA — Senate Committee on Labor chairperson Sen. Raffy Tulfo underscored the need for stronger legal protection for workers in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry, as employees aired complaints over alleged labor rights violations during a Senate hearing.

At the committee hearing on January 21, BPO workers raised concerns over the lack of benefits and alleged violations of labor standards by some companies, saying employee safety and well-being are being compromised for profit.

“Currently, there are 1.82 million Filipinos working in the BPO industry, and they make a significant contribution to our economy—almost on par with the remittances of overseas Filipino workers,” Tulfo said.

“However, unknown to many, the BPO industry is also riddled with complaints and labor law violations,” he added.

Among the issues raised were alleged violations of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Standards, particularly the lack of adequate health maintenance organization (HMO) coverage despite health risks associated with BPO work. Workers said they often shoulder medical expenses during check-ups or emergency situations.

Some workers also claimed that companies prohibit the formation of labor unions, alleging that employees are required to sign documents explicitly preventing them from forming or joining organizations.

BPO workers further expressed distrust in the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), claiming the agency tends to side with management. They alleged that during inspections, DOLE officials only speak with Human Resources personnel and do not interview workers directly.

The workers said they are prepared to submit documents and other evidence to support their claims of labor violations and abuse by certain BPO firms.

In response, Tulfo chided DOLE Undersecretary Felipe Egargo Jr., saying the allegations could be verified. He cited his own experience during surprise inspections at factories last year, where workers made similar complaints that DOLE officials spoke only with management representatives.

“When you conduct inspections, you should not only talk to HR or management. You should talk to the workers and visit them in their actual workplace. Check on their working conditions,” Tulfo said.

Tulfo reiterated his commitment to push for the passage of Senate Bill No. 1493, or the “BPO Workers’ Welfare and Protection Act,” which seeks to ensure job security, overtime pay, leave pay, and other mandatory benefits for BPO workers.

The proposed measure also mandates strict compliance with labor standards, including mandatory breaks and rest days, safe and humane working conditions, mandatory health insurance coverage, and the protection of workers’ right to self-organization.