CCAP backs telecommuting law

CEBU, Philippines — The Contact Center Association of the Philippines (CCAP) has reiterated its support to the newly enacted Republic Act No. 11165 or the Telecommuting Act, which allows agents to work outside of their respective offices.

“Telecommuting was not successful when I piloted such a program in 2003. There was still no sufficient technology back then and security was another issue in terms of data privacy. However, these days, we know that these setbacks can effectively be addressed,” said CCAP president Jojo Uligan.

He added that telecommuting is not a new option for the industry.

Republic Act No. 11165 or the Telecommuting Act provides a viable option for any contact center agent to render work hours outside the company’s designated workplace.

The employee can work at home or at a co-working space—where he/she can still perform the activities without any disruption and where there is available equipment and technology to facilitate business processes.

The law also specifies provisions that serve as protection to the rights of volunteer agents who intend to undergo this setup.

According to Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) director Teresita Cucueco, the employer and employee in the telecommuting program shall set mutually agreed policies to cover important factors like eligibility, code of conduct, performance assessment measures, observance of data privacy policy, and appropriate alternative workplaces.

The law does not require employers to establish telecommuting arrangements, but stresses those must be offered to employees "on a voluntary basis." It also mandates employers to ensure that "telecommuting employees are given the same treatment as that of comparable employees working at the employer's premises," including the pay and benefits.

As ordered, the labor secretary will come up with the implementing rules and regulations in consultation with stakeholders within 60 days.