Manila: The National Anti-Poverty Commission's Formal Labor and Migrant Workers Sectoral Council (NAPC-FLMWSC) has underscored the need to strengthen worker protection and ensure fair pay practices.

According to Philippines News Agency, the matter was discussed during the Senate's Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting on proposed measures against wage theft and for the protection of piece rate or 'pakyawan' workers. NAPC-FLMWSC Sectoral Representative Danilo Laserna emphasized that the focus of the bills should be on strengthening enforcement mechanisms and ensuring that every worker receives full, transparent, and timely pay.

Laserna urged the inclusion of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Department Order 238, series of 2023, in the proposed law on piece rate workers, highlighting its provision for the participation of legitimate labor groups and workers' associations in labor inspections. Citing DOLE's limited manpower, he said empowering accredited labor organizations will help strengthen monitoring, ensure compliance, and promote transparency in labor practices.

He also recommended the harmonization of existing DOLE policies with the proposed legislation to address enforcement gaps and ensure consistent protection for workers across industries. On the proposed Wage Theft Prevention Bill, Laserna pushed for more detailed pay slips showing all deductions, especially government contributions, to help workers track their earnings.

He, likewise, proposed the inclusion of provisions governing service charge distribution and offsetting arrangements, which would prevent unjust deductions and guarantee that employees receive their rightful wages. Laserna also raised concerns about the inconsistencies in wage orders for piece rate workers, calling for standardized guidelines that would ensure fair pay regardless of industry.

At the close of the session, Gail Dela Cruz from the office of Sen. Raffy Tulfo requested all stakeholders, including the NAPC-FLMWSC, to submit their written recommendations and position papers for consolidation. These, she said, will help craft a measure that accurately reflects the realities and needs of Filipino workers. The NAPC-FLMWSC reaffirmed its commitment to advocate for fair labor practices and equitable pay, noting that effective wage protection policies are vital in uplifting the lives of workers, especially those in vulnerable sectors.