Manila: Akbayan Party-list Rep. Chel Diokno on Wednesday introduced a legislative measure aimed at safeguarding the rights and welfare of online platform workers, irrespective of their employment status or classification.
According to Philippines News Agency, House Bill 6572, known as the Protektadong Online Workers, Employees, Riders, at Raketera (POWERR) Bill, seeks to ensure that online platform workers are not exploited and are provided equal opportunities for growth and development. Diokno emphasized the importance of protecting these workers, many of whom are young individuals and entrepreneurs, to ensure they benefit from the flexibility offered by non-traditional employment forms.
The POWERR Bill outlines key provisions such as establishing clear and fair contracts, ensuring equitable compensation, and providing benefits like night differentials, overtime, holiday pay, and access to social protection programs including the Social Security System, Philippine Health Insurance, Pag-IBIG, and maternity benefits. It also supports workers' rights to form unions, bargain collectively, and participate in peaceful concerted actions.
Transparency in algorithm management systems used by online platforms is mandated by the bill, which includes clear guidelines on what is monitored, decision-making processes, and data retention. The bill also aims to enhance the competitiveness of Filipino online workers through TESDA-led access to tech stacks and subsidies.
Additionally, the proposed legislation seeks to prevent worker misclassification, ensuring that online platform workers are not automatically classified as independent contractors. It prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, color, marital status, age, disability, and sexual orientation. Violations of the bill's provisions could result in fines ranging from PHP100,000 to PHP500,000, prison terms, and personal liability for corporate officers involved.
Rep. Diokno highlighted the necessity for laws that adapt to technological advancements, ensuring that Filipino workers are protected in the evolving landscape of work.
