DOLE Opposes Mandatory Alternative Work Arrangements for Private Sector
While numerous government agencies continue to adopt and implement alternative working arrangements, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has firmly rejected proposals to make such arrangements mandatory for the private sector. The announcement was made on Friday, March 13, 2026, by DOLE Spokesman Lennard Serrano during a radio interview.
No Blanket Directive for Private Establishments
Serrano clarified that DOLE is not in favor of issuing a blanket directive that would compel private establishments to implement strategies like compressed workweeks or work-from-home policies. "The implementation of alternative work arrangements for the private sector cannot be mandated, but it is encouraged," he stated emphatically. Instead, the DOLE official emphasized that such arrangements should be negotiated directly between employers and their employees.
"We leave it to the parties — businessmen and workers -- to decide what is a good setup for them," Serrano explained, highlighting the department's preference for voluntary agreements over enforced regulations.
Bureau of Working Conditions Provides Recommendations
In a separate interview, Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC) Director Alvin Curada elaborated on the agency's stance. He noted that this approach is precisely why BWC has developed and laid out specific recommendations for possible alternative work arrangements. These recommendations include:
- Flexible work arrangements
- Compressed workweek arrangements
- Telecommuting work arrangements
Curada stressed that the critical requirement for any such arrangement is mutual agreement between employers and workers. "The important requirement is that employers and workers agree to implement such work arrangements," he said.
Protection of Wages and Benefits
Furthermore, Curada pointed out that the adoption of alternative work arrangements must not lead to any reduction in wages or benefits for employees. "Their performance management evaluation system must be clear, and there should be no discrimination in wages and wage-related benefits," he asserted. This ensures that workers' rights and compensation remain protected regardless of the work setup chosen.
The DOLE's position underscores a balanced approach, promoting flexibility in the workplace while safeguarding employee welfare through collaborative decision-making rather than compulsory mandates.
