Photo Credit: Office of Akbayan Partylist Rep. Chel Diokno
AKBAYAN Partylist Rep. Chel Diokno has filed a measure seeking to safeguard the rights and welfare of online platform workers—regardless of their employment status or classification—through the Protektadong Online Workers, Employees, Riders, at Raketera (POWERR) Bill.
Diokno together with fellow Akbayan Partylist representatives Perci Cendana and Dadah Ismula and Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao. submitted House Bill No. 6572 on Wednesday, accompanied by several motorcycle taxi riders.
“Marami sa ating mga kabataan at kababayan ngayon ay kumikita bilang online workers, entrepreneurs, riders, at sa tulong ng iba pang raket,” Diokno said, noting that while these new forms of work offer flexibility compared to traditional employment, workers must still be guaranteed protection.
“Dapat nating tiyakin na may mga nakalatag na polisiya para kilalanin ang mga karapatan ng ating mga manggagawa sa nasabing larangan, lalo na ang kabataan,” he stressed.
Diokno explained that the measure seeks to ensure that online platform workers are not exploited and are given equal opportunities to grow and thrive.
“Layunin ng ating panukala na protektahan ang kanilang mga karapatan at kapakanan. Dapat hindi sila naagrabyado sa kanilang ginagampanang trabaho at magkaroon sila ng pantay na oportunidad para umasenso,” he added.
Among the key provisions of the POWERR Bill are the establishment of clear and fair contracts, equitable compensation, night differential, overtime, holiday pay, limited deductions, and access to social protection benefits such as SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and maternity benefits.
Under the bill, workers are allowed to form unions or associations, bargain collectively, join national or international organizations, and conduct peaceful concerted actions.
It also mandates transparency in algorithm management systems used by online platforms, including what is monitored, how automated decisions are made, and what data is retained. It further seeks to increase the competitiveness of Filipino workers on web-based platforms through TESDA-led access and subsidies for tech stacks.
The proposed measure also provides protection against worker misclassification, ensuring online platform workers are not automatically tagged as independent contractors.
It also prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, color, marital status, age, disability, and SOGIESC.
Finally, the bill imposes penalties such as fines in the amount of P100,000 to ₱500,000 and prison terms for misclassification or other violations. It will also hold corporate officers personally liable for the offenses.
“With the world of work rapidly changing, the government must ensure that no Filipino is left behind. We need laws that can keep up with technological progress and truly protect our workers,” Diokno said.
metrosundaily
