Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 12) — As the government allows more businesses to resume operations, health officials urge employers to be more considerate about their sick leave policies.
“Repasuhin natin ang mga polisiya ng kumpanya sa sick leave at gawing madali para sa mga may sakit ang tumawag na lang na walang pangamba na mayroong negative consequences,” said Health Spokesperson Ma. Rosario Vergeire on Tuesday in the Department of Health’s daily online briefing.
[Translation: Let’s review the company’s policies on sick leaves and make it easier for employees to call in sick without worrying about negative consequences.]
The government has announced the easing of some quarantine restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic, including lifting work suspensions in several sectors, such as select manufacturing plants and hardware stores.
The DOH reminded companies to implement preventive measures such as social distancing, proper sanitation and disinfection in the workplace. It also told employers to ensure that workers have access to mental health services to help them cope with the situation.
“Itong mga nakaraang linggo ay isang nakakabahalang panahon para sa ating lahat, kaya’t tiyakin ang inyong empleyado ay may access sa mental health services kung kinakailangan nila ito,” said Vergeire.
[Translation: These past few weeks have been anxious times for us all, that is why you should ensure that your employees have access to mental health services if they need them.]
Vergeire said employers should ensure that workers have protective gear, such as face masks, and not force employees showing COVID-19 symptoms to work.
The national COVID-19 case tally has risen to 11,350, with 2,106 recoveries and 751 deaths. Authorities fear a “second wave” of cases once strict quarantine rules are lifted.
