Over 100 Garment Workers in Cebu Face Income Cut Due to Reduced Workweek
In a significant development affecting the local workforce, more than 100 employees at a garments subcontractor located in the Mactan Export Processing Zone in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, are grappling with a sharp reduction in their income. This situation has arisen after the company implemented a shorter work schedule in response to a sharp decline in orders from apparel firms within the export zones.
Details of the Flexible Work Arrangement
A total of 105 workers have been placed on a three-day workweek, a substantial decrease from their previous six-day schedule. This temporary flexible work arrangement was initiated on January 20 and is currently set to last until March 31. According to Kim Francisco, the officer-in-charge of the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the company scaled down its operations due to fewer orders but opted for this alternative scheme to continue operations and retain jobs, rather than resorting to layoffs.
Impact on Workers and Assistance Efforts
The shortened schedule has resulted in employees earning only about half of their usual weekly pay, posing financial challenges for many. In response, the firm has sought an endorsement to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to secure assistance for the affected workers. Francisco noted that the CSWDO typically provides basic necessities as part of its support programs for such cases.
He expressed hope that the reduced work schedule will conclude as planned at the end of March, allowing operations to return to normal and workers to regain their full income. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities in the export-dependent garment industry and underscores the importance of social safety nets during economic downturns.
