MANILA — The BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) said the government’s move to allow up to 90% work-from-home (WFH) arrangements in the sector was driven by sustained pressure from workers, not a voluntary concession.

“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.”

Despite this, the group said the policy remains limited and temporary unless accompanied by concrete support measures for employees.

“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 subsidize corporate profits with our own wages.”

BIEN also cautioned companies under the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) against allegedly using return-to-office (RTO) policies to push workers out of their jobs.

“We are warning IBPAP member companies. Do not weaponize 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 group urged employees in the BPO sector to report cases of abuse and to strengthen workplace organization.

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

BIEN also challenged IBPAP to back its commitments with tangible benefits for workers.

“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.”