If You Can't Figure Out How Get to Work, Ask Your Boss for Help

Businesses are slowly opening, but some workers are still figuring out how to get to work during the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

Employees can’t be blamed for not going to work in offices if their companies could not provide transport services, the Palace said on May 18. 

According to Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, employers should provide transport services like shuttles to employees, as public transport is still prohibited in Metro Manila. Providing near-site accommodations is also an option for companies.

“Kung wala po talaga silang masasakyan, I don’t think that can be taken against the employee,” Roque said.

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez earlier said an employee who refuses to work could lose their job. Lopez clarified that both the employee and the employer should first exhaust all means to still work while public transport is suspended.

Aside from Metro Manila, Laguna, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Angeles City, Zambales, and Laguna are also under MECQ until May 31.

Businesses and industries are allowed to operate or reopen during MECQ, as long as employees and consumers practice social distancing and observe health guidelines.

On May 14, Roque said employees living in GCQ areas could report to work in MECQ areas. The same applies for those living in MECQ areas and have work in GCQ areas. Employees must show proof of employment, an employee ID, and an ID indicating place of residence in order to pass through checkpoints.

Only employees working in industries allowed to operate during MECQ can go between the two quarantine zones. Self-employed indivduals may create their own ID indicating their industry in order to travel for work during MECQ.

Under MECQ, gatherings are limited to only five people.

Walking, jogging, and biking will be allowed, but individuals must wear face masks, disinfect, and maintain proper social distance to prevent the spread of COVID-19.