Manila:The Employees Compensation Commission (ECC) has announced an expansion of benefit coverage for platform workers experiencing heat-related illnesses or injuries while performing their duties.

According to Philippines News Agency, Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino assured stakeholders during a meeting that measures are being developed to protect platform workers from occupational safety and health risks, particularly those related to El Niño and extreme heat conditions.

The meeting was attended by representatives from various platform companies, including ATIN, Flash Express, Foodpanda, Grab, InDrive, Lalamove, Lazada, Maxim (Taxsee Philippines), Move It, Ninja Van, Para Xpress Technology Services, Inc., and Shopee. The discussions centered on the challenges faced by platform workers, especially delivery riders and other workers exposed to prolonged outdoor conditions.

ECC Executive Director Kaima Velasquez highlighted that the commission has issued a resolution that includes several heat-related illnesses eligible for Employees Compensation (EC). The resolution reiterates coverage for existing heat-related diseases and acknowledges new conditions that may affect workers exposed to extreme temperatures.

The identified heat-related illnesses include heat syncope or fainting/dizziness, heat rash (bungang araw), rhabdomyolysis or muscle injury/damage, dehydration leading to kidney injury/damage, and neurological disorders affecting the nervous system's normal functioning. Velasquez noted that conditions such as heat stroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion have been recognized as compensable for workers exposed to excessive heat.