CEBU, Philippines — The National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) Region VII has reaffirmed its earlier decision favoring food delivery riders, marking another victory in their fight for fair pay and better working conditions.
In a press conference yesterday, the National Union of Food Delivery Riders (RIDERS-SENTRO) announced the NLRC’s decision to uphold its September 2024 ruling. The ruling reinstates the riders’ prior benefits, including a P55 base fee and batching incentives of P20, P10, and P5, which had been reduced by Foodpanda in 2022.
The NLRC maintained that the 21 complainants are employees of Foodpanda, as determined by the four-fold and economic realities tests. The commission also ruled that Foodpanda violated labor standards by reducing delivery fees and cutting benefits without consultation.
Foodpanda was ordered to compensate the riders with a total amount of P5.6 million, equating to P280,000 per rider, for the unfair reduction of delivery fees and loss of benefits.
RIDERS-SENTRO leaders celebrated the NLRC’s affirmation as a significant step toward justice for food delivery workers.
They hope that Foodpanda accept the NLRC decision and refrain from further appeals. However, the group said they are prepared even if the matter reaches the Supreme Court.
“Ready kaayo mi, bisan pa sa katapusan nga gitawag natong Supreme Court,” said Jack, a representative of the Partido Manggagawa.
Abraham Monticalbo Jr., president of the Cebu Union of Food Delivery Riders, highlighted the financial burdens caused by the reduction in pay.
Abraham Monticalbo Jr., president of the Cebu Union of Food Delivery Riders, highlighted the financial struggles faced by the riders
“Until now wala gihapoy changes amoang situation, nianam noon og kakunhod. Dako na kaayong alkansi sa riders gikan sa cellphone, load, gasolina, maintenance ug uban pa kay amoa gud tanan,” said Monticalbo.
“Ang eight hours ra unta namo sauna, mahimo na siyang 16 hours anaon namo pag-survive,” he added.
Riders from other areas, including Dumaguete, Iloilo, Bulacan, and Pampanga, have also filed complaints following the example set by the Cebu chapter.
Monticalbo and other union leaders have also urged non-union riders to join their union, ensuring they are protected and aware of their rights as workers.
Currently, over 300 riders are members of the union, though there are approximately 3,000 riders in total across Cebu. — (FREEMAN)