Philippine senator files bill to boost job security for BPO workers
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — A new bill aimed at strengthening the welfare, safety, and job security of business process outsourcing (BPO) employees has been filed in the Philippine Senate, signaling a potential shift in labor protections for one of the country’s largest employment sectors.
Senate Bill No. 1493, or the “BPO Workers’ Welfare and Protection Act,” was filed by Committee on Labor & Employment Chairperson Senator Raffy Tulfo to ensure BPO workers receive adequate protection during calamities, access to medical benefits, and fair wages.
Proposed bill protects BPO workers during disasters
The proposed law aims to protect BPO employees during extreme weather conditions and natural disasters.
“This bill aims to uphold and safeguard the rights of many Filipinos, particularly those from the youth demographic, who seek immediate employment in BPO firms,” Senator Tulfo said.
“It reiterates the labor standards defined in the Labor Code and introduces additional benefits intended to tackle specific challenges and issues linked to the nature of BPO work,” Tulfo added.
Under the measure, work will be automatically suspended during typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, fires, and other calamities.
Employees will also have the option to refrain from working during heavy rain and inclement weather while still receiving hazard pay.
The bill comes after reports that some BPO companies forced workers to report to offices during Typhoon Fung-wong, putting their safety at risk.
SB 1493 also addresses job security and compensation. Employees will be considered regular workers after completing a six-month probationary period or a shorter training period.
The bill further proposes a national entry-level wage of ₱36,000 (US$609.88), aligning with a family living wage, and granting access to medical benefits from the start of employment.
BPO workers’ group hails reform push
The BPO Industry Employees Network (BIEN) has publicly expressed its support for Senate Bill No. 1493, calling the proposed law a “crucial step” toward protecting the rights and safety of the country’s 1.8 million BPO workers.
The group stated that the bill reinforces its long-standing advocacy for a living wage, noting that the proposed entry-level salary aligns with its research on the actual cost of living for BPO employees.
The filing of SB 1493, BIEN added, marks a historic alignment with the Philippine House of Representatives bill, the Magna Carta for BPO Workers (HB 5166). The group said both bills reflect years of organizing and advocacy by BPO workers across the country and represent a significant step toward securing long-awaited welfare and labor reforms.
The bill reflects a growing recognition of the sector’s critical role in the Philippine economy, which employs millions and serves global markets.
In September, Senator Risa Hontiveros also introduced Senate Resolution No. 95, which urges the executive branch to “immediately develop and implement a comprehensive national strategy to address the threats posed by services protectionism.” The resolution cites the “Keep Call Centers in America Act of 2025,” which could “negatively impact the Philippine IT-BPM sector” by threatening jobs and access to U.S. clients.
Strengthening labor protections not only safeguards employee welfare but could also boost productivity and retention, signaling a maturing BPO industry that balances operational efficiency with human capital welfare.
