The Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reminded private-sector workers that they can refuse to work when weather disturbances or similar events pose an imminent threat to their safety and health, without facing administrative sanctions.
Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino signed Labor Advisory No. 14, Series of 2026, on August 19, updating the guidelines governing work suspension in the private sector during weather disturbances and similar occurrences.
Under the updated advisory, employers may suspend work as part of their management prerogative, in coordination with their safety and health committee, safety officer or other designated company officer. The measure is intended to protect employees from dangers arising from severe weather and other disruptive events.
The advisory specifically states that workers who fail or refuse to report for work because of an imminent danger caused by such events should not face administrative sanctions.
However, the rules clarify that workers who do not report for duty because of a work suspension are generally not entitled to regular pay, unless otherwise provided under company policy, established practice or a collective bargaining agreement.
Employees may also use their accrued leave credits if this is permitted by their employer.
For workers who report for duty during a weather disturbance, those who complete at least six hours of work are entitled to their full regular pay. Employees who work for less than six hours should receive proportionate regular pay, subject to any more favourable company policy or established practice.
Employers may also offer additional incentives or benefits to employees who report for work during weather disturbances and similar events.
The new Labor Advisory No. 14 replaces and updates Labor Advisory No. 15, Series of 2025, issued on November 26, 2025.
The earlier guidance covered protections for workers facing imminent danger arising from disruptive events, including natural disasters, industrial accidents and public health emergencies.
The updated rules come as weather disturbances and flooding continue to affect communities and workers across the Philippines.
DOLE said the advisory forms part of the government's efforts to protect workers from workplace hazards, uphold their rights and welfare, and prioritise occupational safety during emergencies while taking into account the continuity of economic activity.