Lapu-Lapu City Government Distributes Rice Assistance to Garment Workers Facing Reduced Work Hours
In response to a significant reduction in work hours, the Lapu-Lapu City government has stepped in to provide essential support to garment workers at the Mactan Export Processing Zone (MEPZ). On Monday, March 2, 2026, eighty employees of a textile subcontractor received rice assistance as part of a relief effort initiated by the city administration.
Work Schedule Cuts Prompt Immediate Aid
The assistance was necessitated by the company's decision to scale back its operations, implementing an alternative work arrangement that limits employees to just three working days per week. This reduced schedule began on January 20, 2026, and is expected to persist until March 31, 2026, creating financial strain for the affected workforce.
To address this crisis, the City Public Employment Service Office (Peso) collaborated closely with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to secure support for the impacted employees. Out of 105 identified workers, only 80 qualified for the aid, with priority given to residents of Lapu-Lapu City itself.
Worker Testimonies Highlight Economic Hardship
One of the affected employees, a 39-year-old worker from Barangay Pajac in Lapu-Lapu, shared his struggles with SunStar Cebu. He expressed that the reduced workdays have had a heavy impact, as he now receives only six days' worth of salary per payroll period. This significant income loss has exacerbated financial pressures, leading him to call on the company's management to address their complaints and concerns more effectively.
Government Response and Future Plans
CSWDO Officer-in-Charge Sheila Baylosis explained that the rice assistance was sourced from the agency's rice subsidy program. She noted that 74 beneficiaries had already received their rice allocations on Monday, with efforts ongoing to ensure all qualified workers are supported.
Both the CSWDO and Peso have committed to continuously monitoring the situation. They plan to seek additional assistance from Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” Chan if the reduced work schedule extends beyond the current timeline, potentially lasting three to six months. This proactive approach aims to provide sustained relief and stability for the workers during this challenging period.
