EDITORIAL - Compressed workweek

With fuel prices still skyrocketing due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the International Energy Agency urged governments worldwide yesterday to implement immediate measures to cut demand for crude oil.

In the Philippines, motorists burdened by the dizzying pump prices are already cutting down on fuel consumption, scrapping plans for leisurely long drives, minimizing trips even to malls and shifting to bicycles where possible. Jeepney drivers are cutting the number of times they ply their routes, preferring the morning and evening rush hours to maximize each trip.

For its part, the National Economic and Development Authority has proposed a four-day workweek to conserve energy, starting with government offices. This was done during the energy crunch in 2008 and the Gulf War from 1990 to 1991, according to NEDA, as it urged the private sector to also consider the scheme.

If the government approves the shift, it should remember the issues raised by organized labor whenever the compressed workweek is proposed. In March 2006 when it was raised as part of austerity measures during the Arroyo administration, the moderate Trade Union Congress of the Philippines and militant labor groups expressed concern over a reduction in earnings especially for non-regular workers and daily wage earners.

The groups stressed that payment for overtime work could not be waived under the law, and working for 10 hours straight could be exhausting and diminish productivity. In the proposed revival of the scheme, the TUCP and Partido ng Manggagawa stress that only workers can waive their right to an eight-hour workday.

In case the scheme is implemented in the private sector, workers must voluntarily agree to it in writing, with the agreement submitted to the Department of Labor and Employment, the TUCP said. Some employers have expressed reservations about the proposal, noting that it could mean additional costs in terms of overtime pay.

With even the International Energy Agency now sounding the alarm, the government may have to push ahead with the proposal, until the Ukraine crisis is resolved. For the private sector, the scheme will be purely voluntary. Whether in the private or government sector, the welfare of ordinary workers must be a key consideration.