A new Senate proposal seeks to improve protections for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) workers, including a higher starting salary. Senate Bill No. 1493, filed by Sen. Raffy Tulfo, introduces the “BPO Workers’ Welfare and Protection Act” to address long-standing issues in the industry.
The bill sets a proposed entry-level wage of at least ₱36,000, aligned with the family living wage. Tulfo said this provision is meant to ensure fair compensation for workers who often enter the sector straight out of school. The measure also grants immediate access to medical benefits upon hiring, instead of waiting until regularization.
Other key provisions include automatic suspension of BPO operations during calamities such as typhoons, earthquakes, and fires. Employees may still choose to work during heavy rain or bad weather, but hazard pay must be provided.
The bill also requires regularization after a maximum six-month probationary period, or sooner if training is shorter. Workers would gain the right to organize for collective bargaining and workplace participation.
The Philippines is the world’s second-largest BPO hub, generating $38 billion in revenue in 2024 and employing 1.82 million people. Despite its economic importance, the sector has faced criticism over unsafe conditions, including reports that employees were forced to report during Super Typhoon Uwan despite floods and power outages.
