DOLE vows aid for Zamboanga fish industry workers

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Over 30,000 workers will receive aid amid the impending shutdown of fishing and canning operations here due to high fuel costs, according to the Department of Labor and Employment.

DOLE regional director Albert Gutid said companies are requesting the deferment of loan amortization payments and remittance of Social Security System premiums or contributions.

The DOLE passed several resolutions supporting the position paper of the Southern Philippines Fishing Association.

Commercial fishing operators earlier revealed that soaring fuel prices are affecting 70 percent of their operations, prompting them to limit, if not halt, sardine fishing.

The stock of canned sardines in the market will last until the end of this month, the canning industry reported.

In case of workforce reduction, Gutib said the DOLE is prepared to activate its response team to discuss possible solutions to save jobs and prevent retrenchments.

“Among the options are flexible work arrangements, including compressed work hours and telecommuting, which allows employees to work remotely,” Gutib said.

The DOLE plans to refer affected workers to public employment service offices and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority for alternative employment opportunities.