Bus firms told to follow wage system

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) yesterday warned that the government is ready to impose stiffer penalties on bus firms that would violate the new wage system for bus drivers.

“Aside from penalties to be imposed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), they can also be charged with violating labor standards, particularly the minimum wage policy,” DOLE spokesman Nicon Fameronag said.

Fameronag said DOLE could immediately start conciliation proceedings and require an erring bus firm to comply with the regulation within five days once it finds a violation.

“The company would be required to rectify the violation, but if they still refuse to do so DOLE can start summary proceedings and order double indemnity for workers. Bus companies have to pay more if they would violate labor laws,” he stressed.

Ciriaco Lagunzad, National Wages and Productivity Commission executive director, said bus firms may apply for minimum wage exemption, but they have to meet certain requirements.

Earlier, the DOLE reported that the LTFRB now requires bus firms to comply with all labor laws before they can get a franchise.

Fameronag said that starting today, a composite team will inspect 158 bus companies to determine their level of compliance with the wage order.