New protocols out for BPO workers

MANILA, Philippines — A month into Luzon’s enhanced community quarantine, the government yesterday announced new protocols that would make it easier for employees of business process outsourcing (BPO) firms and export-oriented enterprises to report for work. 

Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases spokesman Karlo Nograles said BPOs and their service providers would be allowed to install the necessary work-from-home equipment during the quarantine period. 

Export-oriented industries, meanwhile, will be allowed to deploy their workers onsite with accommodations or near site living arrangements, or by providing point-to-point shuttle services subject to strict social distancing measures. The companies are also advised to conduct routine disinfection of their facilities and vehicles.